Police apprehended an 80-year-old woman in connection with a tragic weekend accident that resulted in the deaths of two Wichita women. The incident happened around 9:35 p.m. on Saturday at the intersection of Central and Webb Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.
A black Chevrolet truck, driven by Ann Clowie McLaughlin, 80, was traveling eastbound on Central when it collided with a white BMW and a gray Jeep, both moving south on Webb Road. Inside the BMW were 42-year-old Lashea Bell and her 25-year-old passenger, Aniah Bell, both Wichita residents.
Lashea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene. Aniah Bell was rushed to a nearby hospital but sadly passed away shortly afterward. The male driver of the Jeep, aged 41, was treated at the scene and released.
McLaughlin, the driver of the Chevrolet, was transported to the hospital with injuries. After being medically cleared, she was booked into Sedgwick County Jail and faces two counts of second-degree homicide. Authorities suspect speed and alcohol as contributing factors.
The case is now under review by the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charges.
A Night of Heartbreak: Remembering Lashea and Aniah Bell
The community of Wichita is mourning a devastating loss after a tragic collision stole the lives of two women—Lashea Bell and Aniah Bell. Lashea, 42, and Aniah, only 25, were out on an ordinary evening that turned into a nightmare no one could have foreseen. The suddenness of their passing leaves families and friends struggling to accept the cruel reality. Lashea was declared dead at the scene, and despite urgent medical care, Aniah’s life slipped away in the hospital. Their vibrant spirits and futures were abruptly cut short in a moment that could have been prevented.
The Tragic Crash: A Deadly Collision Caused by Speed and Alcohol
The horrific accident unfolded at the busy intersection of Central and Webb Road, involving three vehicles: a black Chevrolet truck, a white BMW, and a gray Jeep. The Chevrolet, driven by an elderly woman later identified as Ann Clowie McLaughlin, collided violently into the BMW carrying Lashea and Aniah and a Jeep traveling alongside. Reports indicate that speed and alcohol played a significant role in this catastrophic crash. The devastating force of the impact overturned lives in seconds, leaving behind grief and unanswered questions about responsibility and road safety. McLaughlin was injured and is now facing serious charges for her actions.
Healing and Justice: A Community Seeks Answers
In the wake of this tragedy, Wichita is left with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss. Families and friends of Lashea and Aniah are calling for justice, as formal charges are prepared by the District Attorney’s Office. This incident serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, especially involving elderly drivers who may face additional challenges behind the wheel. The community must come together to support those affected and advocate for safer roads to prevent future heartbreak. Counseling and support services are essential now, as those who loved Lashea and Aniah grapple with the pain of sudden loss and search for healing in a fractured world.