Crash claims life of school administrator
On Friday, June 5, 2026, at approximately 7:40 pm, the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office and the Indiana State Police responded to a crash at the intersection of S High St and US 50 in Versailles.
The initial investigation determined that a blue 2019 Chevrolet Suburban, being driven by Hailley Eden, age 24, of Versailles was stationary at the stop sign on S High St before attempting to turn eastbound on US 50. After attempting to turn eastbound onto US 50, a red 2001 Honda motorcycle, being driven by Jacob Rader, age 41, of Waldron was traveling westbound on US 50 and the motorcycle struck Eden’s vehicle.
As a result of the crash, Rader sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by Ripley County EMS.
The Indiana State Police were contacted to provide assistance from a crash reconstructionist.
The investigation is ongoing. Drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be involved at this time. Toxicology results are still pending.
The following agencies and services responded to the incident: Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, Versailles Police Department, Ripley County Coroner’s Office, Ripley County EMS, Versailles Fire Department, and Ripley County Communications.
Rader was the assistant principal at South Decatur Elementary School.
Nicole Stone, principal at South Decatur Elementary said of Rader, “Jake was a man of faith. Often reminding me that this time on Earth was just a stepping stone to something much bigger than we can comprehend. Jake was an educator. But not just any educator. Jake was the man. He stepped in and up when we needed him. Running to support anyone who needed it, not taking anything too seriously – loving all who entered our building so so big. He could relate, motivate, and inspire. Jake was a family man. Man, did he love his family. Often talking about his meals prepared, trips together, memories, kids events, and dreams for his children and grandkids and Jake was an incredible friend. I called, he answered.”
Services for Rader will be held at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship in Waldron. Viewing is from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 11. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 12 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Ben Davis Cemetery.
