Authorities brought a first-degree manslaughter charge against a New Haven woman after they determined she might have been driving more than 50 miles over the posted speed limit when she slammed into another vehicle, killing that car’s driver.
According to a law enforcement officer, he noticed the speeding car and attempted to stop the reckless driver before the crash. However, the vehicle disappeared from his view.
When the officer later came upon the car accident, he observed the driver as she climbed from the driver’s side window. There were two passengers with her at the time, one of whom reportedly carried drug paraphernalia and nearly $2,000 in cash. Specifically, the police found three bags of cocaine, two cellphones, and some uncooked rice, reportedly used to keep heroin dry.
The police said that the driver claimed she was unaware the police were following her. She reportedly told them that she was running from two men with a gun.
The hospital lab reports indicated the driver had no alcohol or drugs in her system when she slammed into the other vehicle. However, her car was not registered and it didn’t have the proper license plate. Additionally, the driver was driving with a suspended license.
Charges against the driver include manslaughter, engaging an officer in pursuit, misconduct with a motor vehicle, reckless driving, and several traffic violations.
While nothing will bring back the young woman who lost her life in this tragedy, it is important that the person who caused the accident is held responsible for her actions and for the pain and suffering of the family that the victim left behind.
Source: New Haven Register, “New Haven woman charged with first-degree manslaughter in April 19 fatal crash,” Rich Scinto, June 24, 2013
