FISHERS, Ind. — The chief of the Fishers Police Department in Indiana was arrested late Friday evening after he was involved in an accident while driving under the influence.
According to a police report, Fishers Police Chief Mitch Thompson was involved in a multiple car accident on Keystone Avenue in Indianapolis just before midnight. The report indicates that Chief Thompson rear-ended a vehicle, causing it to strike another vehicle.
The father of one of the victims says his daughter was driving the Jeep that was rear-ended by Chief Thomson and the force of the crash caused her vehicle to flip. Her and two other young adults in the vehicle were taken to the hospital to be treated for their injuries but are expected to be okay.
Photo provided by Tracy Bartak
Police reports indicate Chief Thompson's blood alcohol level was found to be 0.126 on a portable breath test administered at the scene. He submitted to a blood draw and was placed under arrested for operating while under the influence.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness issued a statement early Saturday morning saying Chief Thompson has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the matter.
Assistant Chief Ed Gebhart has been named Acting Chief of the Fishers Police Department for the course of the investigation.
The incident remains under investigation by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.
You can read Mayor Fadness' full statement below:
Last night, I was notified by Police Chief Mitch Thompson that he was involved in a three-car personal injury accident on Keystone Avenue in Marion County. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is investigating the crash. Chief Thompson reported that he was arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
I’ve placed Chief Thompson on paid administrative leave until all facts related to the incident present themselves. In the interim, I have placed Assistant Chief Ed Gebhart as Acting Chief as we continue to gather facts.
Further inquiries about the crash or the criminal investigation can be directed to IMPD or the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office.
