AUBURN -– An Indiana State Police trooper was killed Friday afternoon while attempting to slow down a speeding motorist who was fleeing police on I-69.

Master Trooper James R. Bailey, 50, of Auburn, was assisting other troopers on I-69 with traffic backup as a result of weather-related crashes south of Auburn when the accident happened, according to a news release from state police.

Bailey became aware of a motorist approaching his location who was driving at a high rate of speed and evading a Fort Wayne Police officer.

Bailey attempted to de-escalate the chase by deploying stop sticks and was struck by the suspect vehicle and critically injured. Emergency medical care was rendered at the scene and he was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The accident happened at about 4:30 p.m. 

He had served with State Police for more than fifteen years.

Bailey is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

The suspect driver, Terry Dewaine Sands II, 42, of Marion, was taken into custody and booked into the DeKalb County Jail on a preliminary charge of Resisting Law Enforcement Causing Death to Law Enforcement Officer, a Level 2 Felony.

“This is a tremendously sad day for the entire Indiana State Police family.  We will band together as we always do in support of Trooper Bailey's family, friends and co-workers,” said State Police Superintendent Douglas G. Carter.

This is still an ongoing investigation. All findings will be turned over to the DeKalb County Prosecutor for review and determination of any further charges that may be filed. 

The Indiana State Police was assisted at the scene by the Fort Wayne Police Department, DeKalb County Sheriff Department, Auburn Police Department, DeKalb  County EMS, Auburn Fire Department, and troopers from neighboring Indiana State Police Peru Post.

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