22-year-old man charged with felony after fatal Mishawaka crash

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, ind.  – Police officers were dispatched to a fatal two-vehicle crash on 12th Street near Michigan Street in Mishawaka on Wednesday around 5:20 p.m.

Police say the driver of one of the vehicles, 37-year-old Kristen Pritchett, of Mishawaka, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The St. Joseph County Fatal Crash Team (FACT) was then activated.

Authorities say initial reports indicate that Pritchett was traveling eastbound on 12th Street and another vehicle, driven by 22-year-old Julius Lee James Jr., of Mishawaka, was traveling westbound on 12th Street.

Police say the initial investigation indicates the crash occurred when James crossed the center line and struck Pritchett almost head on.

St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office has charged Mr. James with one count of causing death when operating a vehicle while intoxicated, a level four felony.

The sentencing range for a level four felony is two to 12 years.

James was ordered to be held without bond until his initial bail hearing.