The family of a Texas A&M student who was killed by a drunk driver four years ago has been awarded 69 million dollars in damages.
A Brazo County jury determined the settlement against the defendant based on his negligence in the case. On September 15, 2019, the 19-year-old plaintiff was walking with friends near campus when she was hit by the then 20-year-old defendant, who was driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The student died a week later.
Last February, the defendant was sentenced to 15 years in prison. At the time of the accident, he ran off but was later caught. He pleaded guilty to both manslaughter, accident involving death charges, and evading arrest.
After the verdict, the plaintiff's family’s attorney said that with this verdict, the jury sent a clear message that their community will not tolerate intoxicated drivers needlessly and recklessly endangering the lives of others.
The family expressed relief that the culprit accepted guilt and will be sentenced. The family is heartbroken that their lovely daughter's life was cut short at such a young age. In her honour, the family has founded a non-profit organisation. The deceased was a veterinarian student.
