Cedar Lake Woman Arrested After Truck Crashes Into Lake Following Police Pursuit
CEDAR LAKEA 32-year-old Cedar Lake woman is facing multiple charges after allegedly fleeing from police Tuesday evening and driving her truck into a lake.
According to a press release, the incident occurred on Tuesday, February 17, 2025, at approximately 7:25 p.m., when Corporal Richard Pennington was monitoring traffic in the 6800 block of West 133rd Avenue.
Police say Cpl. Pennington observed a gold pickup truck traveling southbound on Fairbanks Street disregard a stop sign and drive onto the sidewalk before continuing westbound onto West 133rd Avenue. The officer pulled out behind the vehicle and activated his emergency lights in an attempt to initiate a traffic stop.
Authorities report the truck continued northbound onto Morse Street, navigating through curves before turning onto Lake Shore Drive, where it nearly struck another vehicle.
During the pursuit, officers observed the female driver roll down the driver’s side window and jump from the moving truck. The vehicle continued westbound, went over a metal barrier, and ultimately entered the lake.
The driver was identified as Sara Reeves, 32, of Cedar Lake. She was taken into custody at the scene. An ambulance was dispatched after Reeves was observed bleeding from the head.
Police say Reeves was argumentative and uncooperative with officers. At one point, she allegedly stood up and attempted to flee on foot before being detained by Cpl. Pennington and Officer Dustin Corbin. Authorities further state she remained combative while being transported by ambulance, causing the ambulance to stop so officers could assist in restraining her.
The gold 2000 Chevrolet pickup truck, registered to Reeves, was later removed from the lake and impounded.
Officers also located a bearded dragon inside the vehicle. The animal was safely recovered and turned over to family members.
Police indicated alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the incident. After speaking with family members, authorities stated the motive behind Reeves’ actions remains unclear.
Reeves was ultimately admitted to a medical facility.
Charges Filed
The following charges are being filed with the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office:
- Escape (Level 5 Felony)
- Resisting Law Enforcement (Level 6 Felony)
- Resisting Law Enforcement (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Neglect of a Vertebrate Animal (Class A Misdemeanor)
- Criminal Mischief (Class B Misdemeanor)
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Police commended Corporal Richard Pennington for his observations and swift response during the incident.
