Incident Details
Cause of Death:Policewoman Pearl Lanham was struck and killed by a vehicle after assisting children cross a street near the Glen Park Elementary School.
She had just escorted three children across Broadway and was returning for several other children when she was struck by a car traveling southbound.
Policewoman Lanham died before the arrival of an ambulance having suffered a crushed skull and numerous broken bones.
The 35-year-old driver brought his car to a stop after dragging her some 50 feet. He was subsequently charged with manslaughter.
Policewoman Lanham (née Wheatley) was survived by her husband, 8-, 5- and 4-year-old and 8-month-old daughters, mother, three brothers and sister.
Historical Notes • Policewoman Lanham is the first known female law enforcement line of duty death in Indiana. |