What Happened: A Heartbreaking Tragedy

What Happened: A Heartbreaking Tragedy

• Who: A 12-year-old girl, identified as Jada, lost her life in a devastating crash. Her mother, Jasmine Simpson (31), and her infant sibling were also ejected from the vehicle and sustained life-threatening injuries. WLKYhttps://www.wave3.com

• Where and When: The crash occurred around 2:30 a.m. Monday on the Gene Snyder Freeway near New Cut Road in Louisville. https://www.wave3.comWDRB

• What: A Dodge Durango, driven by Renaldo James Gill (34), rear-ended a Jeep Compass. The Jeep overturned, and its occupants—including the young girl—were ejected. https://www.wave3.comWDRB

Legal Developments

• Charges against Gill: He has been charged with DUI, murder, assault, and failure to wear a seatbelt. https://www.wave3.comhttps://www.fox19.comWDRB

• Charges against Simpson: Jada’s mother was cited for wanton endangerment, failure to wear seat belts, and improperly securing her children’s car seat. https://www.wave3.comWDRB

• Bond and Court Date: During arraignment, a judge set Gill’s bond at $500,000 (up from an initial $250,000) and entered a plea of not guilty. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 10. WDRB

Community Response & Reflection

Neighbors and drivers responding to the news expressed sorrow and frustration. Many emphasized how such avoidable tragedies underscore the urgent need to address drunk driving and promote safer habits—such as choosing rideshares or staying put after drinking.