Pennsylvania Fatal Pedestrian Accident Taken To Court Finds Teen Guilty
A 15-year-old boy admitted in Family Court this week that he was high on marijuana on Christmas Eve when he hit and killed William Wrigley, 73, with his mother’s SUV in this tragic pedestrian accident in Pennsylvania.
According to the article in the Philadelphia Daily News, Wrigley was crossing M Street near Erie Avenue in Kensington, PA on Dec. 24 when he was struck by the teen.
The teen pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle while DUI, involuntary manslaughter, committing an accident with serious bodily injury while not properly licensed, and leaving the scene of an accident.
He will be sent to a secure state juvenile-placement facility for two years. In exchange for his plea, prosecutors agreed to not seek to have his case tried in adult court.
According to the report, the boy, who was driving without a license, was aiming to make the green light at Erie Avenue when he swerved into the opposing lane of traffic to pass a car in front of him. When he returned to the northbound lane, he hit Wrigley, who was crossing the intersection. Then he drove off.
If the teen were to have been tried in adult court, the mandatory minimum sentence for homicide by vehicle while DUI is three years in prison under state law. The maximum sentence is five to 10 years in prison.
This teen should be held criminally and civilly responsible for the accident and the death of William Wrigley. Wrigley’s family deserves to be rightfully compensated for their tremendous loss. They would be well advised to contact a skilled Philadelphia Wrongful Death attorney who will file a wrongful death claim on their behalf and fight for their rights.
When needless death occurs due to negligence of another party, Pennsylvania wrongful death lawsuits can be filed. In these lawsuits, the decedent’s heirs sue the negligent party or parties for damages related to the loss of life and their own pain and suffering.
Cherry, Fieger, and Marciano understand the devastating impact a Philly wrongful death can have on a family. Call today for a free case evaluation and more information.
