Death investigation underway in southern Indiana; man arrested

KENT, Ind. (WAVE) - A death investigation is underway in Jefferson County, Indiana.

Authorities from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office were called around 1:10 p.m. to respond to a Kent Mercantile on SR 256 on Saturday, according to a release. Shortly after, officers were called to a residence in the 8200 block of West Kent Blankenship Road in Kent, Ind. for a death investigation.

Authorities identified 44-year-old Christy “Cricket” Newman of Kent, Ind. as the victim. Newman’s death was confirmed at the Kent Mercantile. A autopsy has been scheduled.

Officers arrested 28-year-old Dalton Simmonds of Kent, Ind. on drug related charges. The release said Simmons and the victim were in a relationship at the time.

This is an ongoing investigation. Assisting the JCSO is the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, Indiana State Police, Hanover Police Department, among others.