On September 4, 2025, Darke County Deputies, along with Tri-Village Rescue, New Madison Fire, Medflight and Darke County Reconstruction Team, responded to the intersection of N. Main Street and Fairview Avenue in the Village of New Madison in reference to a vehicle and pedestrian accident.
Preliminary investigation revealed a 2018 Nissan Murano, driven by Karen Bales, was traveling southwest in the 100 block of N. Main Street when a bicycle, being ridden by Laim Napier (10), was traveling northwest on Fairview Avenue, failed to stop at the posted stop sign and rode into the path of Mrs. Bales, causing Laim to strike the driver’s portion of Mrs. Bales’ vehicle.
Laim was treated at the scene by Tri-Village Rescue for his injuries before being flown to Miami Valley Children’s Hospital. Laim’s condition is unknown at this time. Mrs. Bales was not injured in the accident.
This accident remains under investigation.
