With profound sadness, we remember and honor the life of Evan Lee Shaffer, 13, of Macon, Georgia, who died following a fatal crash involving a pickup truck and a moped in Howard County, Indiana, on Thursday afternoon.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:51 p.m. at the intersection of CR 750 West and CR North/South, when deputies with the Howard County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a serious collision involving a motor vehicle and a motorcycle. Upon arrival, authorities located a black 2017 Dodge Ram 2500 and a red and black Zuma moped that had collided in the roadway.
Investigators identified the moped operator as Evan Lee Shaffer of Macon, Georgia. Despite emergency response efforts at the scene, he was pronounced deceased due to the severe injuries sustained in the crash.
Preliminary findings indicate that the Dodge Ram 2500 was traveling southbound on CR 750 West when the moped reportedly entered the intersection, resulting in the collision. Officials continue to examine physical evidence, roadway markings, and witness accounts as they work to determine the full sequence of events.
The driver of the pickup truck was transported to Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Kokomo for evaluation and consented to a standard post-crash blood draw, as part of routine investigative procedures. Authorities have not confirmed whether impairment is suspected at this time.
An autopsy for Evan is scheduled for Friday, with official results pending toxicology testing and further medical review. The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue to reconstruct the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
As word of the tragedy spreads, an entire community is left in shock and deep sorrow. Those who knew Evan are remembering a bright, gentle, and loving young soul whose life brought warmth, joy, and meaning to those around him. He is described as a child with a kind heart, a beautiful spirit, and a presence that touched people in quiet but lasting ways.
His family is now left with unimaginable grief, holding tightly to precious memories of his laughter, innocence, and the love he shared so freely. Friends and loved ones are leaning on one another for comfort, finding strength in shared memories and the bond of community support during this painful time.
In the days ahead, vigils and gatherings are expected as those closest to him come together to honor his life and celebrate the beautiful memories he leaves behind. Though his time on earth was far too short, the impact of his presence will continue to be felt in the hearts of all who knew him.
Evan Lee Shaffer will be remembered in loving memory, forever cherished, forever missed, and forever held close by those who loved him most.
