Angola Man Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in Fatal Crash Involving Children

Markus R. Genovese, 53, pled guilty to manslaughter charges after an accident on June 8, 2024, resulting in a child’s death. He was intoxicated and fled the scene. An 8-year-old boy died from injuries and a 4-year-old was treated and released. Genovese faces up to 15 years in prison.

Markus R. Genovese, a 53-year-old resident of Angola, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges stemming from a fatal accident that resulted in the death of a child. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office reported that Genovese admitted guilt to second-degree manslaughter, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, and a count of leaving the scene of an incident that caused death before Judge James Bargnesi in Erie County Court.

The tragic incident occurred on June 8, 2024, when Genovese, driving a pickup truck on Lake Shore Road in Hamburg, collided with another vehicle. He was reportedly under the influence of alcohol or drugs and did not possess a valid driver’s license at the time of the accident. Genovese crashed into the rear of an SUV that was stopped for a left turn, leading to severe consequences.

Following the collision, Genovese fled the scene but was subsequently found in nearby woods by law enforcement officials. He was transported to the Erie County Medical Center for undisclosed injuries. Tragically, one of the two child passengers in the victim’s SUV, an 8-year-old boy, sustained fatal injuries in the crash, while the other child, aged 4, received treatment and was later released from the hospital.

Genovese is facing a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, with sentencing set for May 12 at 9:30 a.m. Currently, he is being held without bail. District Attorney Michael Keane praised the efforts of the Town of Hamburg Police Department and their Accident Investigation Unit for their thorough work in handling this case, which was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Christopher M. McCarthy and Natasha G. Greenan.

In conclusion, Markus R. Genovese’s guilty plea to manslaughter and related charges highlights the severe consequences of driving under the influence, particularly involving children. The tragic loss of life and the resulting legal ramifications underscore the critical importance of adhering to road safety laws and the responsibilities of drivers, especially in residential areas. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance and care in preventing such incidents.

Original Source: www.observertoday.com