>> Driver pleads not-guilty in Preble County crash that killed family of three and unborn child
In a competency hearing today, Preble County Prosecuting Attorney Martin Votel said two doctors evaluated Murphy and each determined he was incompetent to stand trial. Votel said the state would move to dismiss the charges against Murphy.
Votel said following the crash, Murphy was badly injured and spent several months in the hospital. Evaluations found he was incompetent to stand trial based on brain damage.
As a result, Judge David Abruzzo ruled that the court had “no choice” but to dismiss the charges.
The case will not go to trial.
>> Semi-trailer black box technology aids in fatal Preble County crash
Police said the family’s Jeep Cherokee was struck by a semi-truck at the intersection of U.S. 127 and Ohio 725. Camden police cited speed as a factor in the crash.
Murphy was in a medically induced coma following the crash.
About the Author