An Ellicott City woman who hit and killed a pedestrian last year pleaded guilty on Monday to auto manslaughter and a related drug charge.
According to the Office of the State's Attorney for Howard County, in September 2016 29-year-old Brittany McElhiney was seen driving on the wrong side of the road on Green Clover Drive. She collided with another vehicle then hit 78-year-old Robert Dukehart. McElhiney was uninjured but Dukehart was taken to shock trauma where he later died from his injuries.
Further investigation revealed when the accident occurred McElhiney was under the influence of drugs, primarily Xanax and two bags of marijuana was found in her car. A data recorder of her car also revealed she was traveling 30 mph over the speed limit.
A search of McElhiney home on Hobsons Choice Lane led to the recovery of more drugs, paraphernalia, and cash. Resulting in drug manufacturing and distribution charges against McElhiney and her boyfriend, 65-year-old Richard Debois.
Sentencing for McElhiney has been set for November 30. Until then she must attend and participate in a Mothers Against Drunk Driving victim impact panel.
