Vigo County - August 21, 2024, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Indiana State Police Master Trooper Ty Lightle observed a black pickup truck traveling northbound on US 41 near Head Road.  The truck appeared to be traveling above the posted 55 MPH speed limit. Activating his radar, he received a reading of 70 MPH.  Master Trooper Lightle, in his fully marked police car, activated his emergency lights and attempted to make a traffic stop. The driver ignored Master Trooper Lightle’s emergency lights and a pursuit ensued.  The truck continued southbound reaching speeds in excess of 140 MPH, traveling off road near the Wabash River bottoms in an attempt to evade troopers.  Shortly thereafter, the truck made its way back onto US 41 near Evans Drive, traveling northbound.  Master Trooper Jeremy Lewis and an off duty Vigo County Deputy observed the truck driving directly towards them.  Both officers immediately activated their emergency lights. The driver of the truck, seeing that there was no escape, ended the pursuit by turning into a parking lot, coming to a stop.  A felony traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was taken into custody.  

The driver was then identified as Marc R. Welsh, age 38, of Rosedale, Indiana.  Further investigation by Master Trooper Lightle also revealed that Welsh displayed signs of impairment.  Welsh was offered the opportunity to take a certified chemical test, but he refused.  He was arrested and taken to the Vigo County Jail where he is currently being held without bond.  

Arrested and Charges:  Marc R. Welsh, 38, Rosedale, IN 

• Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle, Felony 6

• Criminal Recklessness with a Vehicle , Felony 6

• Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated (prior), Felony 6

• Reckless Driving, Class B Misdemeanor

Assisting Agencies:  Vigo County Sheriff’s Department and Peffley and Hinshaw Wrecker Service. 

Photo:  Marc Welsh 

All criminal defendants are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.