A Nyack woman has pleaded guilty to a series of serious charges stemming from a devastating drunk-driving crash that occurred in June of last year, resulting in one fatality and significant injuries to another passenger. The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office announced the plea deal on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment in a case that has drawn significant public attention due to the tragic loss of life and the egregious nature of the offense.
According to prosecutors, Elizabeth Mitchell, 45, admitted in court to driving while intoxicated at the time of the crash. The high-speed incident claimed the life of Jahaad Muhammad, who was sitting in the front passenger seat, and left Davante Jones, a rear seat occupant, with serious injuries. The collision unfolded in the early morning hours when Mitchell, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, sped through a 30 mph zone at more than double the speed limit—reaching approximately 70 mph before losing control of the vehicle.
Authorities say Mitchell’s vehicle veered off the roadway, crashing violently into a metal barrier and fence. Rather than remaining at the scene to render aid or notify emergency services, she fled on foot, leaving behind her critically injured passengers. Prosecutors emphasized that Mitchell made no attempt to call for help, an act that not only delayed medical attention for the victims but also added to the gravity of her offenses.
During her court appearance, Mitchell pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges, including aggravated vehicular homicide, second-degree manslaughter, vehicular assault, and driving while intoxicated (DWI). These charges reflect both the loss of life and the significant injuries sustained, as well as Mitchell’s reckless and irresponsible behavior that led to the crash.
The Rockland County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that under the terms of a negotiated sentence, Mitchell will face a prison term of 7 to 21 years. Sentencing is scheduled for July, during which the court will formally impose the penalty. The range allows for the possibility of parole after seven years, depending on various factors, including behavior while incarcerated and the findings of the parole board. However, the maximum sentence could extend to more than two decades behind bars.
Efforts by local media, including News 12, to obtain further details about the exact location of the crash have not yet been successful, as the District Attorney’s Office has not released additional information at this time.
The case has underscored the devastating impact of impaired driving, highlighting the irreversible consequences that can result from a single moment of poor judgment. For the families of the victims, the guilty plea provides a measure of accountability but cannot undo the pain and trauma inflicted by the crash. As Rockland County continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy, officials are urging the public to remember the dangers of driving under the influence and to take every possible step to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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