The Wichita community is grieving following a devastating traffic collision that claimed the lives of Lashea Bell, 42, and her 25-year-old daughter, Aniah Bell, on Saturday night. Authorities have arrested an 80-year-old woman from Augusta in connection with the crash. She now faces two counts of second-degree homicide.
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The incident occurred at approximately 9:35 p.m. at the intersection of Central and Webb Road. According to the Wichita Police Department, a black Chevrolet truck traveling east on Central collided with a white BMW and a gray Jeep traveling south on Webb Road.
Tragically, Lashea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene, while Aniah Bell was transported to a local hospital but later succumbed to her injuries. The driver of the gray Jeep, a 41-year-old man, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene before being released.
The driver of the Chevrolet sustained injuries in the crash and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. An officer remained with her during medical care, and once cleared, she was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on two counts of second-degree homicide.
Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and alcohol were contributing factors in the collision. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charges. The Wichita Police Department has labeled the case as 25C159788 and continues to seek information from anyone who may have witnessed the crash.
The sudden loss of Lashea and Aniah Bell has left the Wichita community in shock. Family, friends, and neighbors have shared memories of the mother and daughter, remembering them for their warmth, kindness, and the positive impact they had on everyone around them.
Community members have gathered to honor the Bells’ lives, lighting candles and sharing stories of their cherished presence. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of the road and the profound impact of reckless driving, leaving a grieving community seeking answers and remembering two lives tragically cut short.