A routine traffic stop attempt escalated into a high‑speed pursuit Monday evening in Darke County, ending in a collision that killed 17‑year‑old Ashlee Holmes and left authorities examining the choices made by the driver they were chasing. Around 8:15 p.m., a Darke County deputy spotted a westbound SUV exceeding posted limits on State Route 47 and began to follow. What started as a traffic check became a dangerous pursuit at speeds topping 120 mph.
The vehicle, a 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar driven by 33‑year‑old Tarsem Singh of Union City, refused to stop and accelerated as the deputy approached with lights activated. For roughly five miles, the chase unfolded through Jackson Township, with the SUV leading law enforcement down rural stretches of highway.
Investigators say Singh’s vehicle crossed the center line and collided head‑on with a 2016 Jeep Cherokee carrying a 35‑year‑old Union City, Indiana resident. The impact was severe. Singh’s SUV left the road and overturned before resting back on the asphalt.
Holmes, riding in the SUV, was ejected and died at the scene. Singh suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to a Dayton hospital. The woman in the Jeep was also hospitalized with injuries described as non‑life‑threatening.
Law enforcement agencies are now examining why the driver fled and the circumstances that led to the pursuit. The Ohio State Highway Patrol has taken the lead on the crash investigation and will forward their findings to the Darke County prosecutor. The Sheriff’s Office is probing potential charges for fleeing and eluding a deputy.
In the aftermath, community members have expressed concern not only for the tragedy that took a teenager’s life but for how quickly a stop led to such devastation. Neighbors are questioning the risks and choices made in the moments before the crash.
Meanwhile, friends and family mourn Holmes, remembered as an energetic teen with a generous spirit. Vigils and tributes are being planned as loved ones gather to honor her memory and confront the shock of her sudden loss.
