Marksville, LA (2/15/2024) – A pre-trial hearing took place today, February 15, 2024, in the case of State of Louisiana v. Christopher McCoy at the 12th Judicial Court of Avoyelles Parish, with Judge William Bennett presiding.
Christopher R. McCoy, 23, of Bunkie, was behind the wheel of a GMC Sierra on Louisiana Highway 1176 on April 7, 2023, when tragedy struck. The vehicle veered off the road, careened into a ditch, struck a culvert and a tree, and ultimately flipped onto its roof.
McCoy, who was not restrained, sustained moderate injuries. Tragically, passenger Lauren Vaughn, 22, of Alexandria, was unable to survive her injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the incident, it was revealed that McCoy’s blood alcohol content was 0.15%. Louisiana State Police Troop E subsequently arrested McCoy on charges of vehicular homicide, DWI first offense, reckless operation, no seat belt, and open container on June 7, 2023. McCoy was booked into and released from the Avoyelles Parish Jail.
McCoy pleaded ‘not guilty’ to all charges on August 22, 2023.
During today’s pre-trial hearing, a motion for continuance was presented and granted. The pre-trial proceedings are now scheduled for April 11, 2024, with the trial set to commence on May 13, 2024. McCoy is represented by John Calmes.
In memory of Lauren Vaughn and to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk and impaired driving, a Memorial Run/Walk is planned for Saturday, March 30, 2024. For further information and to learn more about Lauren, visit LV5K.com
