News Summary
Jamie Caldwell, a 29-year-old teacher in Lexington, has been charged with DUI and leaving the scene after fatally hitting pedestrian Joshua Hampton. The incident, which occurred on April 16, has raised concerns about impaired driving as Caldwell awaits trial under house arrest.
Lexington, Kentucky – A 29-year-old teacher, Jamie Caldwell, has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) and leaving the scene of an accident following a fatal hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian, Joshua Hampton, aged 32. The accident occurred early on April 16, and Hampton succumbed to his injuries on April 18, two days post-collision, as confirmed by the Fayette County Coroner’s office.
The incident took place around 6:45 a.m. on Georgetown Road, near Mercer Road. Authorities reported that Caldwell, who was on her way to work at Glendover Elementary School, allegedly fled the scene of the accident after striking Hampton. Subsequent investigation led the police to Caldwell’s vehicle, which was found parked at Glendover Elementary.
Upon locating the vehicle, officers noted visible damage consistent with the collision. Caldwell exhibited signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and an apparent odor of alcohol. Field sobriety tests conducted by the police indicated she was unfit to drive. Caldwell’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measured at 0.278, a level exceeding Kentucky’s legal limit by more than three times.
During police questioning, Caldwell admitted to consuming Bacardi Rum the night before the incident and stated that she had taken prescription medication for anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure on the morning of the crash. Despite claiming to have heard a “thud” while driving, she asserted that she was unaware she had hit a person.
Caldwell has been charged with aggravated DUI and leaving the scene of an accident, specifically failing to render aid or assist in the event of death or serious physical injury. Following the incident, the case has been forwarded to a grand jury for further proceedings. Caldwell is currently under house arrest as she awaits her next court appearance, scheduled for April 29, where she has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges.
The Fayette County Public Schools district has placed Caldwell on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation. According to district officials, they have limited capacity to share information regarding the circumstance due to the active nature of legal proceedings.
This tragic event adds to growing concerns about impaired driving and its consequences within the community. Authorities are working to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, as well as the legal repercussions that follow. The investigation into the incident continues as the community mourns the loss of Joshua Hampton.
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Additional Resources
- WSAZ
- Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
- WKYT
- Google Search: Impaired Driving Statistics
- Kentucky.com
- Google Scholar: Impaired Driving
- Fox 56 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drunk Driving
- WTVQ
- Google News: Teacher Arrested DUI
- Kentucky.com
