Royce Sims Obituary, Hobart, IN Accident Death – In Loving Memory
A devastating crash on southbound I-65 early Friday, May 15, 2026, claimed the lives of three young individuals and left a fourth child critically injured. Royce Sims, 9, Artavius Sims, 5, and 19-year-old Raniah Simpson were killed when a Ford Explorer driven by Renee Foster, 31, of Gary, struck the rear of a disabled semi tractor trailer parked on the shoulder, about one mile south of Ridge Road. Seven-year-old Terrion, a sibling of Royce and Artavius, survived and was airlifted to the University of Chicago Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.
According to Indiana State Police, the Explorer collided with the semi at high speed, causing severe damage to the SUV. One passenger was ejected during the crash. Foster suffered upper body injuries and was taken to Franciscan Health Crown Point, while the semi-truck driver was unharmed. Police said Foster told investigators she had fallen asleep before the crash. Alcohol is also suspected as a contributing factor, though toxicology results are pending.
Police investigations revealed that none of the children were restrained in seatbelts or car seats. Authorities have recommended charges against Foster, including four counts of neglect of a dependent as Level 5 felonies, reckless driving, driving while suspended, and four child restraint violations. Foster was not in custody at the time of the report due to receiving medical care and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The deaths of Royce, Artavius, and Raniah have left families in Chicago, Gary, and northwest Indiana in profound grief. The tragedy has emphasized the importance of child restraints and seatbelts, with emergency officials reminding the public that proper safety measures save lives.
While Terrion fights for recovery, loved ones are left to grieve and navigate the legal process ahead. Royce, Artavius, and Raniah will be remembered not only for the tragic circumstances of their passing but for their lives, smiles, and the everyday moments they shared with family and friends.
Rest in peace, Royce Sims, Artavius Sims, and Raniah Simpson. You were loved, you will be missed, and your memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew you.