High speed and a victim’s failure to yield were major factors in an officer-involved crash in Bartlett October 2014 that left two citizens dead, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT).
The data came from a state trooper’s testimony in criminal court last Friday, explaining evidence that Bartlett Police officer Lucas Hines was driving 75-80 mph, exceeding the posted 40mph speed limit.
The other driver, Danny Floyd, failed to yield to oncoming traffic and was going about 25 mph as he entered the turn, according to Trooper Shane Moore.
He said Hines was only able to slow the vehicle to 71mph before impact. The collision was at the intersection of Stage Road and Bartlett Boulevard on Oct. 12, 2014.
Floyd, 63, and Michelle Sloyan, 49, were not wearing seatbelts and were ejected upon impact. Both died from their injuries. Hines faces two counts of vehicular homicide, and he has remained on administrative leave without pay since his indictment.
A press release stated that Hines had pursued a reckless driver, but his supervisor ordered him to disregard the chase. The accident was investigated by the Tennessee Highway Patrol CIRT.
The type of vehicular homicide that Hines is charged with (conduct that creates a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury) is a Class C felony with potential prison times of 3-15 years and a possible fine of more than $10,000 if convicted.
He also would be prohibited from driving in Tennessee for 3-10 years if found guilty.
His trial date is set for Aug. 15.
