Deborah Leyba Arrested – South Bend Fatal Crash, Woman Found Dead in Parking Lot

A tragic incident on the east side of South Bend has resulted in the death of one woman and the arrest of another, as authorities continue to investigate a fatal crash that occurred in a parking lot. Police have identified 61-year-old Deborah Leyba as the individual taken into custody in connection with the case.

According to officials, officers responded shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday to a business located in the 3600 block of Edison Road after receiving reports of an unresponsive woman in the parking lot. Upon arrival, emergency responders found an adult female victim who was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts to assist her. Authorities have not yet released her identity as they work to notify next of kin.

Following the initial response, investigators focused on locating a vehicle believed to be involved in the incident. Several hours later, the suspect vehicle was identified, leading to Leyba’s arrest. She was taken into custody without incident and transported to the St. Joseph County Jail.

At this time, Leyba remains in custody pending a charging decision from the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office. The Fatal Crash Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, the South Bend community mourns the loss of the victim and awaits further details.