BRISTOW, Ind. — A tragic traffic crash in the early hours of Saturday morning has claimed the life of one man and led to the arrest of another on charges related to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. The fatal incident occurred near the intersection of State Road 145 and Cattail Road in Perry County and remains under active investigation by local authorities.
At approximately 12:19 a.m. on July 19, 2025, Perry County Central Dispatch received multiple reports of a serious collision along State Road 145 near Bristow. Emergency responders from the Perry County Sheriff’s Office, along with several supporting agencies, were immediately dispatched to the scene.
Preliminary Investigation and Sequence of Events
According to the preliminary investigation, Timothy Neyenhaus was operating a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado when his vehicle left the roadway and became lodged in a culvert, coming to rest partially in the southbound lane of State Road 145. As Neyenhaus worked to assess or possibly remove the vehicle, two good Samaritans stopped to offer assistance. Their vehicles were positioned and stationary in the northbound lane as they aided Neyenhaus.
Moments later, a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, driven by Jeffery A. Rasche, approached the scene traveling southbound on State Road 145. Rasche failed to slow down or stop for the obstructed area and collided with Neyenhaus and his disabled Silverado, resulting in devastating consequences.
Despite the rapid arrival of emergency services, Timothy Neyenhaus was pronounced deceased at the scene. His death marks a tragic end to what began as a moment of neighborly aid and assistance.
Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI
Following the incident, Jeffery A. Rasche was detained at the scene by responding deputies after showing signs of impairment. He was interviewed by authorities, and based on observations, evidence, and the outcome of initial testing, Rasche was arrested and transported to the Perry County Detention Center.
He is currently facing the following charges:
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated Causing Death
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated – Endangerment
- Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated
The Perry County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing, and additional information may be released as the case develops. Investigators continue to review evidence, conduct interviews, and await the results of toxicology reports.
Community Response and Acknowledgements
This tragic crash has deeply impacted the Perry County community, as the circumstances involve both a fatality and a suspected DUI offense — a reminder of how quickly poor decisions can lead to irreversible outcomes. The Sheriff’s Office has expressed its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Timothy Neyenhaus and offered gratitude to the individuals who attempted to help at the scene.
In a statement, Sheriff Alan Malone said:
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the loved ones of Mr. Neyenhaus. This incident is a painful reminder of the consequences that can result from impaired driving. We thank the brave citizens who attempted to help and all the emergency responders for their professionalism and care.”
Agencies Assisting at the Scene
The Perry County Sheriff’s Office wishes to recognize and thank the following agencies for their swift and coordinated response:
- Perry County Fire-Rescue
- Saint Meinrad Fire Department
- Anderson Township Fire Department
- Perry County EMS
- Perry County Coroner’s Office
- Tell City Central Dispatch
- Ohio Valley Towing
As this investigation continues, anyone with additional information or who may have witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact the Perry County Sheriff’s Office.
“Anyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”
The community of Bristow mourns the loss of Timothy Neyenhaus, and as the investigation unfolds, many are left grappling with the gravity of one man’s decision to drive under the influence — a decision that cost a life and forever altered many others.
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