Indianapolis News Update – January 28, 2026

Tanya Terry Appointed as First Female IMPD Chief

Indianapolis has made history with the appointment of Tanya Terry as the first woman to permanently lead the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). With nearly 30 years of service, Terry began her career as a beat officer and has held various roles, emphasizing a community-first approach. Mayor Joe Hogsett praised her leadership, noting her contributions as a deputy chief and district commander, which have been linked to a local decline in crime rates. Terry joined the department in 1999 after graduating from Warren Central High School and studying psychology and sociology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. She also acknowledged the pioneering women before her who made her achievement possible. Additional command staff appointments will be announced following her swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Monday.

Multiple Vehicle Accidents Reported in Indianapolis

Several vehicle accidents occurred in Indianapolis on January 28, 2026. A multi-vehicle collision involving a police cruiser and two Cadillacs was reported on North Keystone Avenue, resulting in at least one injury. Emergency crews responded promptly, and the injured party was evaluated by medics. The full extent of their injuries has not been made public. Another incident occurred on the eastbound on-ramp to the Sam Jones Expressway from I-70, involving a white Capital City coach van and a silver Chevy sedan. Emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after the incident was reported around 11:10 a.m. Medics were dispatched to provide treatment to at least one person hurt in the collision, though the severity of injuries has not been disclosed. Additionally, a serious two-vehicle accident was reported at the intersection of East 21st Street and North Sherman Drive, involving a gray Chevy Cavalier and a brown SUV. Initial reports indicated that one person may have been unresponsive at the scene. Emergency crews, including medics, were dispatched shortly after the crash was reported. The full extent of injuries has not been confirmed at this time, and it remains unclear how many individuals were inside each vehicle.

Robert Morris Defeats IU Indianapolis 74-58

In college basketball action, Robert Morris University defeated IU Indianapolis 74-58. Ryan Prather Jr. led the Colonials with 20 points, shooting 6 for 10 from the field, including 4 for 5 from 3-point range. Darius Livingston added 14 points, and Ta’Zir Smith contributed 11 points. For the Jaguars, Micah Davis scored 18 points, along with four assists and two steals. The game was part of the Horizon League schedule, with both teams competing for positioning in the conference standings.

Why it matters locally

• Tanya Terry’s Appointment: Marks a significant milestone in local law enforcement leadership, potentially influencing community policing strategies.
• Vehicle Accidents: Highlights ongoing traffic safety concerns in the city, emphasizing the need for improved road safety measures.
• College Basketball Game: Reflects the competitive sports environment in the region, engaging local fans and contributing to the community’s sports culture.

Sources

• Tanya Terry becomes first woman to lead IMPD
• Indianapolis, IN – Injury Accident Involving Police Cruiser on N Keystone Ave
• Indianapolis, IN – 2-Vehicle Injury Accident on Sam Jones Expy EB On-Ramp from I-70
• Indianapolis, IN – 1 Possibly Unresponsive After 2-Car Accident at E 21st St & N Sherman Dr
• Robert Morris wins 74-58 against IU Indianapolis