HamCo prosecutors file to move charges to adult court for teen accused in Mason Alexander death
The Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office filed to transfer their case against the driver accused in 18-year-old Mason Alexander's death to adult court.
On March 1, 2025, Alexander was a passenger in a 2016 BMW 340 traveling south on Florida Road near 113th Street in Fishers. The BMW's 17-year-old driver tried to pass another vehicle just before the crest of a hill but spotted oncoming traffic, swerved to avoid a collision and veered off the road.
The BMW struck a tree and caught fire. Alexander was pronounced dead at the scene.
More: Hamilton Southeastern graduate, Pitt freshman CB Mason Alexander dies in car accident
Authorities declined to comment on reports of an arrest last week, but on May 5 confirmed that a juvenile court petition alleges reckless homicide, reckless driving and false government identification.
Though Alexander's family confirmed the driver has turned 18 since the crash, Indiana law requires the case to begin in juvenile court. Under state statute, adult criminal courts only have automatic jurisdiction for minors charged with specific crimes, none of which are alleged in this case.
The prosecutor's office confirmed the teen is in custody as of May 5.
"As prosecutors, we are committed to seeking justice in a way that honors Mason's life and respects the seriousness of this tragedy," Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Joshua Kocher wrote.
The defendant's name will not be released unless the court agrees to move the case out of the juvenile system. The prosecutor's office did not immediately respond to a question about when the judge's ruling will be made.
Alexander's family has been vocal in their search for answers. On April 21, his family and friends rallied outside the sheriff's office holding signs demanding justice and accountability.
Alexander, a star football player, graduated early from Hamilton Southeastern High School to play as a cornerback for the University of Pittsburgh.
Ryan Murphy is the communities reporter for IndyStar. She can be reached at rhmurphy@indystar.com.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: HamCo prosecutors want to try driver in fatal Mason Alexander crash as adult
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