Florida Man Who Struck, Killed North Branford Man In Hit & Run Gets 18 Years In Prison: Court

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — Tuesday, James Black was handed an 18-year sentence in New Haven Superior Court on charges of Manslaughter, Evading Responsibility Resulting in Death, and Tampering with Evidence in a fatal vehicle versus pedestrian crash in North Branford.

Black, 42, and a Florida resident, struck and killed David Horbal, a North Branford resident, on March 28, 2024 on Foxon Road near East Haven town line, and then took off.

"While no sentence can ease the pain and loss suffered by Mr. Horbal’s family, friends, and loved ones, we hope this conviction provides a measure of justice and begins the process of healing from this tragic and senseless incident," said North Branford Police Department Chief James Lovelace.

"From the initial call, North Branford police officers have worked tirelessly on this investigation," the Department's Facebook post reads. "We extend our gratitude to all who assisted in bringing this case to justice, including our law enforcement partners at the East Haven Police Department, Branford Police Department, Madison Police Department, Guilford Police Department, New Haven Police Department, the South Central Regional Traffic Unit, and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office.
We are especially thankful for the Highlands County Sheriff's Office - Sheriff Paul Blackman in Florida, whose efforts in locating James Black and securing crucial evidence were instrumental in achieving this conviction. Their professionalism and cooperation were invaluable to the success of this case."

The police department also recognized the support of the North Branford community and its businesses, as well as residents and businesses in surrounding towns.

"Your assistance and commitment throughout this investigation were unwavering and essential to the outcome," the Chief of Police said. "I am especially thankful and in awe of the efforts and determination of the officers of the North Branford Police Department—particularly Officer Louis Pane, the lead investigator in this case. Their professionalism, empathy, work ethic, and commitment to ensuring James Black was brought to justice for this horrific crime highlight their devotion to the residents of North Branford and to the Connecticut law enforcement community."

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