Evansville, IN – A man accused of driving an SUV off the roof of the Bally’s Casino parking garage has been arrested on multiple charges, including criminal recklessness, failure to appear, and criminal mischief. The incident, which took place in November, left authorities shocked and raised concerns over the driver’s mental health and compliance with treatment.
Jeremiah Oldham, 34, of Evansville, was arrested earlier this week after an investigation into the bizarre crash that saw his vehicle careen off the seventh floor of the parking garage and into the Conference Center below. Miraculously, no one was injured during the incident, though the crash caused significant property damage.
According to police reports, Oldham was initially hospitalized after the crash, though he has since been released. Details from a previous affidavit reveal that Oldham was on federal probation at the time of the incident and had been noncompliant with medication and treatment for psychosis. These factors may have contributed to the erratic behavior leading up to the crash, though authorities have not yet provided a full explanation.
Oldham now faces several serious charges in connection with the crash, including criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon, failure to appear, and criminal mischief. Despite the severity of the incident, no injuries were reported. Authorities continue to investigate whether additional charges may be warranted.
The crash has raised questions about mental health and safety, with some local officials expressing concern over Oldham’s apparent disregard for his medical treatment. The incident also highlights the potential dangers posed by untreated mental health issues, particularly in situations where individuals may be struggling to follow through with prescribed care.
As of now, Oldham remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings. His mental health status and the role it played in the crash will likely be key points of focus as the case moves forward.
Though the crash occurred in a high-traffic area of the casino complex, no one was injured. The vehicle plunged from the roof of the parking garage, landing in the Conference Center below, causing substantial damage to the building’s infrastructure. Surveillance footage from the garage shows Oldham’s SUV speeding across the roof before it drove through a barrier and down into the event space.
Authorities say Oldham’s mental state is currently under evaluation, and additional medical assessments may be required as part of the ongoing investigation.
In addition to the charges related to the crash, Oldham’s arrest also stems from his failure to comply with federal probation requirements. Officials report that Oldham had been on probation at the time of the crash, having been convicted on previous charges that are not currently publicly disclosed. His failure to follow through with necessary medical treatment or take prescribed medication may have contributed to his erratic behavior, law enforcement sources suggest.
As the case progresses, Oldham’s legal team will likely argue mitigating factors related to his mental health. However, the seriousness of the charges suggests that he will face significant legal consequences.
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether other factors, such as alcohol or drugs, played a role. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by untreated mental health issues, especially in high-risk situations like this one.
