LaPorte County authorities have arrested and charged two women following a fatal crash that claimed the life of a 10-month-old girl during an apparent road rage incident.

According to the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, 29-year-old Deondra L. Moore of Fort Wayne and 26-year-old Felisha A. Stout of Westville were involved in a high-speed situation while driving westbound on County Road 400 North in Coolspring Township on June 27.

Investigators say both women were operating separate vehicles – Moore in a 2009 Nissan Rogue and Stout in a 2008 Jeep Liberty – when the incident escalated. Moore’s vehicle reportedly veered left of center, left the roadway, struck multiple trees, and caught fire.

Moore, a 10-year-old boy, and her 10-month-old daughter, Khleja’nae L. Sims, were inside the SUV. The infant died.

Stout fled the scene immediately after the crash but returned minutes later while deputies were already on-site. She was detained shortly after arriving. Moore was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment before both women were transported to the LaPorte County Jail, where they remain held on 48-hour holds.

Detectives continued working into the night, collecting statements and compiling evidence. On Saturday, investigators presented their findings to the LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office. Formal charges were later filed.

Stout has been charged with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Resulting in Death, a Level 4 felony. Moore faces a charge of Reckless Homicide, a Level 5 felony.

Stout is being held on a $20,005 cash-only bond. Moore’s bond was set at $15,005. Both are being held in the LaPorte County Jail.

“The circumstances of this crash are unequivocally inexcusable,” said Administrative Captain Derek J. Allen. “The arrestees are being held accountable for their actions and for the death of a defenseless Khleja’nae.”

The investigation remains ongoing.