The Allen County community is mourning the tragic loss of Drew Stephen Saddington, 15, of Fort Wayne, and Bradley Dale Maller, 70, of Kokomo, who lost their lives in a devastating multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 69 near Roanoke, Indiana. Their sudden deaths have left family members, friends, classmates, and loved ones grieving an unimaginable loss while reflecting on the lives they lived and the memories they leave behind.
According to authorities, the fatal crash occurred on June 3 along the southbound lanes of I-69 near the 295-mile marker, south of the I-469 interchange. Investigators reported that a semi-truck collided with stopped traffic, setting off a chain-reaction crash involving three semi-trucks and three passenger vehicles. Drew Saddington and Bradley Maller were pronounced dead at the scene.
Drew Stephen Saddington was a beloved teenager with a bright future ahead of him. A resident of Fort Wayne, he had completed his freshman year and was preparing to begin his sophomore year. School officials and members of the educational community have expressed profound sadness over his passing, remembering him as a valued student whose life held tremendous promise. Friends and classmates are mourning the loss of a young person whose presence brought friendship, energy, and positivity to those around him.
Bradley Dale Maller, a longtime Kokomo resident, is remembered as a devoted family man and respected member of his community. Loved ones describe him as a kind-hearted individual whose strength, generosity, and quiet compassion touched many lives. His passing has left a deep void among family members, friends, and neighbors who cherished his wisdom, support, and companionship.
The Allen County Coroner’s Office determined that Drew died from blunt impact injuries and Bradley from multiple blunt force injuries sustained in the collision. Both deaths were ruled accidental.
As the investigation continues, communities across Indiana are united in mourning two lives lost in a tragic event. Though separated by generations, both Drew Stephen Saddington and Bradley Dale Maller leave behind legacies of love, friendship, and meaningful connections.
They will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of all who knew them.
May they both rest in peace.
