The DeMotte Christian Schools community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Jorie Rottier, a Class of 2025 student, who tragically passed away following a serious multi-vehicle crash in Jasper County, Indiana.
According to preliminary reports from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred on June 8, 2026, at approximately 12:17 p.m. on State Road 10 near County Road 1100 West in DeMotte. Authorities stated that multiple 911 calls were received reporting a collision involving several vehicles.
Investigators indicated that a 2013 Ford Fusion, driven by 26-year-old Kiana Bessette of Wheatfield, struck the rear of a 2006 Mini Cooper driven by 19-year-old Marjorie Rottier of Lowell, who had two juvenile passengers in the vehicle. The impact caused the Mini Cooper to enter the opposite lane, where it was struck by a 2024 Ford F-150 driven by 45-year-old Lori Asztalos of Lowell, also carrying two juvenile passengers.
Officials further reported that the Ford Fusion continued eastbound after the initial impact and collided with a 2019 Ford Flex driven by 64-year-old Penny Diehl of Rensselaer, who also had two juvenile passengers. Despite all occupants wearing seat belts and airbags deploying in the crash, Marjorie Rottier sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Emergency responders from Keener Township EMS, Newton County EMS, fire departments, and local law enforcement agencies responded to the scene. Due to weather conditions, air medical transport was unable to assist. Several injured individuals were transported to trauma centers in Crown Point, Indiana, and Kankakee, Illinois, for further treatment.
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing with support from the Indiana State Police and the Jasper County Coroner’s Office.
In the wake of the tragedy, DeMotte Christian Schools expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Jorie Rottier, remembering her as a bright, kind-hearted student whose faith and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on classmates, teachers, and the wider community. Her family, Rich and Laura Rottier, are long-standing members of the school community, and support continues to pour in for all families affected by the crash.
As the community mourns, prayers continue for healing, strength, and comfort for all those impacted by this devastating incident.
