A man has been arrested and charged with DUI and vehicular homicide, as well as involuntary manslaughter and other related crimes following the death of a man in Duquesne last month.
According to the Allegheny County police, Homestead resident, Jeffrey Hancock, 30, was driving under the influence of alcohol and driving recklessly when he struck a Grand Am being driven by Parrish Parker, 41. The impact forced Parker’s vehicle into the Oliver Plaza Apartments on March 9th.
Police say that Parker had stopped and was waiting on oncoming traffic at the North Second Street ramp and Route 837 at approximately 9:30 p.m. when Hancock rear-ended his vehicle.
Parker, a resident of Oliver Plaza, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash. William Duhart, who had been riding in Hancock’s vehicle, also was injured. Police reports indicate that the two men had been at High Roller’s Club in Homestead. Duhart claims that he had no idea how much Hancock had been drinking when Parker offered him a ride.
Authorities allege that Hancock’s blood alcohol level was measured at .221, placing his intoxication level greater than 2½ times the legal limit.
At the time of the crash, Hancock claimed that Parker had pulled out in front of him. Upon further investigation, police found that Hancock has two other pending cases for DUI in 2013.
Having a DUI conviction with vehicular homicide or manslaughter attached to it can be disastrous. Once you have such a conviction on your record, it can result in prison time, excessive fines as well as community service, loss of insurance and your license. Even being charged with such criminal behavior, someone who has been arrested and charged with DUI or DWI in the state of Pennsylvania can fight those charges.
If you or a loved one has been accused of an alcohol related accident, no matter how serious the situation may seems, the Law Offices of Steven E. Kellis are here for you and we are on your side. Call today to make an appointment with an attorney who can make a real difference in your defense. You may use the contact form here on our website. We will be here for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.