Driver In Fatal North Versailles Crash To Stand Trial

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The driver involved in a fatal accident in North Versailles last month was in court Friday.

Police say on Dec. 28, 42-year-old Ezekwesiri Arukwe ran a red light and crashed into a box truck, killing the man inside.

During testimony, what clearly motivated District Judge Jim Motznik to hold Arukwe for trial was what happened o the way to the tragic accident.

Accident investigators testified that on the way to where Arukwe's rig hauling steel slammed into a box truck, there were numerous signs warning drivers of big rigs to slow down.

The speed limit for trucks was 20mph. Police think Arukwe's rig was going at least 40 when it slammed into that truck killing 55-year-old Kenneth Feldman.

Arukwe spoke to reporters through his lawyer after he was held for trial on charges involving homicide by vehicle.

His lawyer, Bobby Del Greco, says it was accidental – not intentional.

"Or all the cases that deal with criminality, these are the most regrettable and the most tragic," he said.

"It's an understatement to say this was an unfortunate episode and Ezekwesiri has asked me to convey his sincerest condolences over this very unfortunate matter.

"He is distraught at what was an unfortunate accident," Del Greco added.

Arukwe lives in Dallas. He'll be formally arraigned next month and his lawyer did not rule out a guilty plea once the case gets to a judge.