• A Lexington special education teacher, Jaime Caldwell, faces aggravated DUI and hit-and-run charges after allegedly striking and killing pedestrian Joshua Hampton while driving under the influence.
• Caldwell's BAC was measured at 0.278—over three times the legal limit—after admitting to drinking the night before and taking prescription medications the morning of the incident.
• Advanced technology helped police identify Caldwell’s vehicle, leading to her arrest at Glendover Elementary School, where she has since been placed on administrative leave.

A tragic hit-and-run incident involving a special education teacher has left a Lexington community grappling with loss and unanswered questions. The teacher, Jaime Caldwell, could face additional charges after the victim, who was allegedly struck while Caldwell drove to work, succumbed to his injuries.

Teacher Facing DUI Charges After Fatal Accident

On April 16, Jaime Caldwell, a 29-year-old teacher at Glendover Elementary School, allegedly struck Joshua Hampton, a 32-year-old man, while driving under the influence. Investigators reported that the incident occurred around 6:50 a.m. on Georgetown Road, a busy corridor located approximately 75 miles east of Louisville.

Police say Caldwell did not stop to help the injured pedestrian. Hampton was rushed to the hospital but tragically died two days later on April 18, according to the Fayette County Coroner’s Office. Caldwell currently faces charges of aggravated DUI and leaving the scene of an accident, though those charges may escalate following Hampton’s death.

Advanced Technology Helped Police Identify the Suspect

After the collision, officers from the Lexington Police Department used their Real-Time Intelligence Center to track Caldwell’s vehicle. This innovative system accesses public traffic cameras and private surveillance footage (with consent) to assist in investigations.

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Authorities quickly located Caldwell at her workplace, where her vehicle, still in the school’s parking lot, showed visible damage. When officers approached her, they observed that her “eyes were bloodshot and watery,” and they detected alcohol on her breath, as reported by WLEX News.

Admitting to Drinking Before Driving

Caldwell allegedly admitted to consuming Bacardi Rum the night before the accident. Additionally, she disclosed taking prescription medications for anxiety, depression, and blood pressure that morning. She claimed she “heard a thud” while driving but did not realize she had hit a person.

A breathalyzer test later revealed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.278—more than three times Kentucky’s legal driving limit of 0.08. Caldwell was arrested and processed at the Fayette County Detention Center.

Legal Proceedings Underway

In court on April 20, Caldwell pleaded not guilty to the charges during a virtual appearance. A magistrate judge set her bond at $25,000 cash-only. She is scheduled to appear again on April 29, where further legal developments are expected.

Fayette County Public Schools, through spokesperson Dia Davidson-Smith, confirmed that Caldwell has been placed on administrative leave, adding, “The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priority.”

Residents Express Shock and Concern

The news has left the community shaken, with many expressing concerns about safety and accountability. Pedestrian safety advocates have called for more awareness around impaired driving, while education officials are reviewing their standards to prevent similar incidents.

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