Will Caitlyn Jenner Face Manslaughter Charges?
On February 7th, Caitlyn Jenner was driving a black Cadillac SUV on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu when she collided with Kimberly Howe's Lexus from behind, sending the car into oncoming traffic where it was hit by another SUV. Howe died at the scene.
Police have now completed their investigation into the crash and will turn their findings over to the district attorney next week. But the question remains: will she be charged with a crime?
The Deadly Accident
The deadly, four-car accident was investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office. Detective Richard Curry told reporters, "Jenner's case is going to go to the district attorney next week to see if it is worthy of a misdemeanor violation for involuntary manslaughter."
Curry added, "We did determine in the investigation that Jenner was going at an unsafe speed for the prevailing conditions, even though he was traveling under the posted speed limit." A Toyota Prius in front of Howe came to a stop, and Howe's car hit the Prius before being struck by Jenner's SUV.
The State Statute
California defines vehicular manslaughter as "the unlawful killing of a human being without malice" while:
Driving a vehicle in the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, but without gross negligence; or driving a vehicle in the commission of a lawful act which might produce death, in an unlawful manner, but without gross negligence.
As Det. Curry said, Jenner was deemed to be driving at an unsafe speed. However, Curry also pointed out that Jenner did not commit gross negligence. If charged and convicted, Jenner could face up to a year in jail under California's involuntary manslaughter laws.
Jenner released a statement following the crash:
"My heartfelt and deepest sympathies go out to the family and loved ones, and to all of those who were involved or injured in this terrible accident. It is a devastating tragedy, and I cannot pretend to imagine what this family is going through at this time. I am praying for them."
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Related Resources:
- Caitlyn Jenner Could Face Manslaughter Charge in Deadly Malibu Crash (Variety)
- Bruce Jenner Crash Investigation: 5 Things You Should Know (FindLaw's Celebrity Justice)
- Bruce Jenner Sued For Wrongful Death (FindLaw's Celebrity Justice)
- Caitlyn Jenner Sued Again for PCH Crash (FindLaw's Celebrity Justice)
