Saul Chavez was charged with aggravated DUI and leaving the scene of an accident involving death after he allegedly struck a 66-year old insurance broker in a fatal hit-and-run. William McCann, the victim, was reportedly crossing the street in Logan Square when Chavez plowed into him, reports the Chicago Sun-Times.
According to the Sun-Times, Chavez hit McCann with such force that McCann flew into the car’s windshield. After Chavez hit his brakes, his victim reportedly was thrown to the ground when Chavez tried to make a getaway by running over McCann and dragging his body. Before Chavez could get very far, one Good Samaritan cut him off with a minivan, blocking his path.
At this point, Chavez allegedly got out of his car and attempted to flee on foot. An off-duty cop joined the landscaper who had blocked Chavez's car and gave chase.
Saul Chavez now faces significant penalties for the fatal accident and his attempts to flee. An aggravated DUI that causes death is considered a Class 2 felony in Illinois, and Chavez could go to jail for 14 years.
Most DUIs in Illinois are considered misdemeanors. This usually means that someone convicted of the crime faces a fine and possible prison time not exceeding a year.
However, if aggravating factors exist such as in this case, a DUI can be considered a felony and someone convicted of the crime faces significant jail time. Along with a DUI that results in injury or death, aggravating factors can include multiple DUI convictions, a DUI while driving with a revoked or suspended license, and a DUI while driving without proper insurance.
Related Resources:
- Find a Chicago DUI Attorney (FindLaw)
- Off-Duty Cop, Landscaper Chase Down DUI Suspect (NBC)
- DUI Law: Overview (FindLaw)
- Joannie Pittman Charged With Reckless Homicide for Fatal DUI (FindLaw's Chicago DUI Blog)
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