DWI Driver Charged in Deadly Crash Outside High School

Washington Township Police Department announces charges against 49-year-old woman

Jan. 30, 2026 at 2:15pm

A 49-year-old Franklinville woman has been charged with vehicular homicide and assault by automobile after allegedly driving drunk and crashing her vehicle outside Washington Township High School in November, resulting in one fatality and one injury, according to local police.

Why it matters

Impaired driving crashes remain a major public safety concern, especially in areas near schools where pedestrians and young drivers are present. This incident highlights the need for continued education and enforcement efforts to prevent such tragedies.

The details

On November 24, officers responded to a crash involving a 2020 Nissan Sentra on Hurffville Crosskeys Road in front of Washington Township High School. An investigation determined that the driver, Barbara Stell, was driving recklessly and under the influence of alcohol and narcotics at the time of the incident.

  • The crash occurred on Monday, November 24, 2025.
  • Charges were announced by police on Friday, January 30, 2026.

The players

Barbara Stell

A 49-year-old woman from Franklinville who has been charged with vehicular homicide and assault by automobile in relation to the deadly crash.

Washington Township Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that investigated the incident and announced the charges against Barbara Stell.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to educate the public and enforce laws to prevent these senseless tragedies.”

— Chief John Smith, Washington Township Police Chief

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Barbara Stell at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the urgent need for stronger measures to combat impaired driving, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic like school zones, in order to protect public safety and prevent future loss of life.