A young man has been found guilty of causing the death of three teenagers in a DUI-fueled crash in November of 2011, in which the man inhaled compressed air and then passed out at the wheel, as reported by the Star Courier.
The Cambridge courthouse was filled to capacity on June 13 waiting for Judge Ted Hamer's verdict. Family members and friends of the three deceased teens, K.C., L.B. and B.W., lined the room as they stood in anticipation of the judge's ruling.
The man on trial, M.B., now 20 years old, was found guilty of reckless homicide and aggravated DUI. The sentencing has been scheduled for September 9 following a pre-sentence report.
Judge Hamer discussed the emotional side of the case and also his reasoning in finding M.B. guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Hamer told the courtroom, "Having a loved one killed in a crash such as this is a devastating, life-altering event. Having a loved one charged with crimes such as those before the court is obviously a different type of event, but it's still a devastating event. Regardless of what happens here today, there are no winners or losers."
Proving M.B.'s guilt did not require a coroner or doctor to testify as to the cause of the three deaths. The bench trial lasted two and one-half days.
Hamer allowed hearsay to be admitted in court in regards to the can of compressed air. The contents, warnings and instructions on what to do if used improperly were listed directly on the can.
The events leading up to the multiple homicide, according to Hamer, occurred as follows: T.F. drove himself and four friends to the Wal-Mart in Kewanee. In the store, and as shown on the store's surveillance video, M.B purchased a can of compressed air.
M.B., now driving the group, took a country road toward Toulon and bypassed Route 78. According to T.F. someone said, "Hey, (M.B), you shouldn't be doing that" and soon after that "he also heard screaming, as three passengers…were screaming (M.B.'s) name."
As far as considering if M.B. had a seizure, in looking for another reason that M.B. may have temporarily blacked out, Judge Hamer said, "No one prior to November 29, 2011, ever saw (M.B.) have a seizure or pass out, including his friends, mother or fiancé. The issue in the case was what caused Mr. (M.B.) to pass out and lose consciousness prior to this accident on November 29th."
One expert did testify in the trial. State toxicologist Dr. J.L. told he court that M.B.'s unconsciousness during the crash was indicative of huffing.
Two police officers that interrogated M.B. in his hospital room on December 12 reported that he nodded his head and answered yes to questions about huffing prior to the car crash.
An attorney that specializes in DUI, DWI, OUI and OWI best defends charges that stem from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Click here for our directory and contact a DUI attorney near you for help.