BUFFALO BILLS RUNNING BACK COULD FACE GRAND JURY FOR HIT-AND-RUN

Buffalo Bills starting running back, Marshawn Lynch, allegedly was involved in a hit-and-run car accident on May 31, in Erie County, New York. The accident, which occurred in close proximity to Buffalo, New York’s bar district, was very likely captured on nearby surveillance cameras, and if so, would show Lynch’s 2008 Porsche SUV speed away after striking a 27-year old female pedestrian. The woman suffered a bruised hip and a laceration requiring stitches.

Lynch’s attorney met with the Erie County D.A., but no information was exchanged after the District Attorney would not agree to certain preconditions before questioning. Prosecutors wish to speak with passengers who were in the vehicle with Lynch to determine who was driving the SUV when it struck the woman. The District Attorney has not ruled-out convening a grand jury to force the vehicle’s passengers to testify, offering prosecutorial immunity, but considered this option as a last-resort. Nevertheless, such action may prove necessary if no relevant information comes to life.

Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident

Leaving the scene of an MVA is a serious offense and carries criminal penalties as well as others. In Pennsylvania, a hit-and-run accidents involving serious bodily injury carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 90-days in jail. If the accident results in death, a mandatory minimum of 1-year in prison is applicable. If alcohol and/or drugs were involved, penalties increase exponentially. Further, you may lose your driving privileges for an extended period of time, and be subject to civil liability.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident where you were alleged to leave the scene, it is imperative that you contact a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney as soon as possible. An attorney will assist in your defense, coordinate with the prosecutor, and can substantially reduce or eliminate the penalties against you.