News Summary
Jaime Caldwell, a 29-year-old special education teacher, was arrested after allegedly hitting a pedestrian while driving under the influence. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. Caldwell fled the scene but was apprehended later at her school, facing charges including aggravated DUI. Her blood-alcohol content was measured at 0.278%. The incident has raised concerns about impaired driving and community safety.
Lexington – A 29-year-old special education teacher from Fayette County Public Schools, Jaime Caldwell, was arrested on Wednesday morning after allegedly striking a pedestrian while driving under the influence. The incident took place around 6:50 a.m. on Georgetown Road, near Mercer Road.
The pedestrian involved in the collision suffered life-threatening injuries and was promptly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Details regarding the identity of the pedestrian have not been released as they are currently under medical care.
Following the collision, Caldwell reportedly fled the scene. However, law enforcement officials arrested her approximately 90 minutes later at Glendover Elementary School, where she is employed as a learning and behavior disorders teacher. Caldwell faces multiple charges, including aggravated DUI and leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid or assist with death or serious physical injury.
Upon her arrest, Caldwell’s blood-alcohol content was recorded at a staggering 0.278%, which is more than three times the legal limit for driving. When officers arrived at the school, they noted that Caldwell displayed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and a strong odor of alcohol. Caldwell admitted to consuming Bacardi beverage the previous night and taking prescribed medication on the morning of the incident.
In response to the incident, Dia Davidson-Smith, a spokesperson for Fayette County Public Schools, confirmed that Caldwell is on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. While the district is aware of the circumstances surrounding the incident, they are limited in their ability to provide further information due to the ongoing investigation.
The Collision Reconstruction Unit is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, and it has been noted that additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues. Caldwell is presently held at the Fayette County Detention Center.
Following the incident, the area where the collision occurred has since been cleared, and all lanes on Georgetown Road are now open for traffic. The community is still reeling from the serious nature of the crash, and officials stress the importance of safe driving practices.
This shocking incident brings attention to ongoing concerns regarding impaired driving and public safety, particularly near busy roadways. The Fayette County community is urged to remain vigilant while driving, especially as investigations lead to a deeper understanding of the factors surrounding this distressing situation.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 56 News
- Wikipedia: Driving under the influence
- WKYT
- Google Search: Lexington pedestrian hit and run
- Kentucky.com
- Google Scholar: Pedestrian hit and run Lexington
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Safety
- WTVQ
