How you can help – Jarrod Nichols: Survival & Strength

Moving forward is the focus for the Nichols family as they assist son, Jarrod, to heal from extensive injuries and devastating loss, in a September 10 car crash.

The Milan Fire Department and the Aurora Police Department have joined forces to support the family. They are hosting “A Night Out for Nichols” a night of fun and food with all proceeds going to support Nichols on his journey to recovery.

“A Night Out for Nichols” will be at the American Legion in Milan. The Benefit will be from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. There is also a Jeep/Side-by-Side Ride scheduled on October 21, Saturday, that will start and end at the Milan American Legion.

The Jeep and SxS Ride entitled “Nichols In Need” has registration starting at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday morning. Departure at 11:00 a.m. and return at 5:00 p.m. Entry Fee is $25 per vehicle and $5 per rider.

At the Benefit there will be a pulled pork dinner from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. or until supplies run out. Dinner will include pulled pork, cole-slaw and Reservation Beans.

There will be table-top raffles and a silent auction. Donations can be made for the raffle or auction through drop offs at Whitewater Auto Sales; ask for Kady Ison.

Aurora Police Department will be accepting donations for the raffle and auction by contacting Sgt. Matt Hountz at (812) 926-1101 or by e-mail at: mhountz@aurora.in.us.

Free Will Offerings will be accepted at “A Night Out for Nichols” Benefit. There will be plenty of entertainment with bounce houses (donated by Infamous Fews) and an assortment of Fire Trucks, Police Cars and even UC Air Care will attend to show their helicopter at 5 p.m. The Fire Trucks, Police Cars and UC Air Care Helicopter will be “Touch-A-Truck” events.

There will be fun had by all at the dunking booth! It will feature Police Officers volunteering to be dunked! The dunking booth is titled: Dunking the Doughnut!

Good times are the focus to raise funds needed for Nichols’ recovery.

Another feature of the night will be multiple live bands! Come out to enjoy the camaraderie, donate some money and bask in the community that supports its’ own.

There is also a benefit account one can donate to at all Southeastern Indiana Civista Banks.

Backstory: (warning: details may cause distress to some)

On the evening of September 10, in Marshall County (northern Indiana) three families were irrevocably altered. The Duerstock family lost a treasured family member, Riley, 21 years old.

Riley Hope Duerstock was a 2021 Batesville High School Graduate and Salt-of-the-Earth friend. Described by all as a humble, caring and compassionate person who selflessly valued everyone she met.

Duerstock was enrolled at University of Indianapolis, in her third year. She planned to become a flight nurse. On September 11, Duerstock succumbed to injuries sustained in the wreck. In one last selfless act she donated her organs to three recipients who’s lives now continue because of Duerstock and her passion for life.

Jarrod Nichols was severely injured. And his outcome, at the time, was unknown. Unofficially reported to be released soon. His injuries are significant and recovery continues as a very long road ahead.

The family that will now, never be, for the engaged couple of Nichols and Duerstock, was destroyed. All members of both families grieve this loss.

Nichols is a 2017 graduate of Milan High School.

Nichols is a six-year Veteran of the National Guard. On June 24, 2023, Nichols was sworn-in as an Aurora Police Officer. He has an Associate’s Degree in Cyber Security; and is a certified EMT.

Nichols (driving) and Duerstock (passenger) were struck while on their way home from a vacation in Michigan. Purportedly by a driver (Arturo Mendez) under the influence of alcohol. The driver was driving northbound in a southbound lane. The driver has had an initial hearing. Charges include but may not be limited to: Criminal Recklessness Level 5 Felony; Aggressive Driving Level 5 Felony; and OWI Level 4 Felony.

Disclaimer: All persons charged in relation to a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.