Causing a fatal crash can lead to serious criminal charges, but doing so in a stolen vehicle may lead to even higher penalties. If defendants combine these offenses with operating under the influence (OUI), they face potential homicide charges. This became clear after a recent incident in Plainview that killed a 10-year-old child. If you face similar charges, you may want to get in touch with an experienced defense lawyer in Massachusetts.
Man Pleads Not Guilty to Charges After Fatal Massachusetts Crash
A man from Massachusetts recently pleaded not guilty to 14 charges, all related to a fatal crash in Plainview. The crash occurred in August of 2024 and claimed the life of one child. The 42-year-old defendant has been accused of vehicular manslaughter, negligent operation, motor vehicle larceny, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Another report states that he faces an additional charge of vehicular manslaughter with OUI liquor.
Police say that the defendant stole a Jeep Grand Cherokee from a parking lot outside a Kenny Chesney concert. The owners left the keys inside the vehicle, allowing the defendant to travel down Interstate 495. At some point during this journey, he collided with a Nissan Altima occupied by a family. The impact killed a 10-year-old and caused the other five family members to suffer various injuries.
Police say that when they arrived, the defendant was highly disorientated. He allegedly believed that he was driving his wife’s car, and he was recorded making self-incriminating statements on numerous occasions. The first alleged statement was recorded during a phone call with his wife, during which the defendant reportedly admitted to having “one too many.” He then agreed to an audio-recorded interview with the police, during which he admitted to drinking during the concert.
Probable Cause Hearing Set for September 19th
A probable cause hearing is set for September 19th, and there are a few things to note about his defense. First, he refused a blood test – so there may be minimal supporting evidence of his intoxication. Second, it may be difficult to convict him of auto theft if he genuinely believed he was driving his wife’s car. If his wife’s car is an identical model, he could realistically argue that he took the car by mistake – especially given the keys were sitting inside the vehicle. If he can avoid both the OUI and the auto theft charges, he may only face the remaining traffic violations.
Can a Massachusetts Defense Lawyer Help After a Fatal Crash?
If you have been accused of causing a fatal car accident in Massachusetts, consider a consultation with a defense attorney. Choose Edward R. Molari and discuss your unique situation in more detail to assess potential defense strategies. The consequences of OUIs, fatal crashes, and auto theft can be very serious – especially when you commit them simultaneously. That being said, an experienced defense lawyer may be able to help you avoid some – or all – of these convictions. Reach out today to learn more about your options.