Harsher Charges Likely in Fatal Crash Heading Toward Trial

Local prosecutors haven't yet upgraded the charge against a Hampton woman who was allegedly driving drunk when she struck and killed a pedestrian, although authorities say that is a likely possibility as the matter proceeds through the court system.

Danielle F. Kooyoomjian, 29, of Hampton, waived arraignment in Hampton District Court Wednesday on one count of aggravated driving while intoxicated. Kooyoomjian was charged in connection to a Hampton Beach car versus pedestrian crash that occurred at about 1 a.m. on Oct. 13.

Authorities expect the Rockingham County Attorney's Office to up the charge to negligent homicide, although that hadn't happened as of Thursday.

Details about the incident are still scarce, and the crash is still under investigation.

Charles Sayre, 57, of Amesbury, Mass., was allegedly struck by a vehicle driven by Kooyoomjian near a crosswalk at the intersection of Ocean Boulevard and Highland Avenue on Oct. 13.

Sayre was pronounced dead at Massachusetts General Hospital as a result of serious injuries sustained in the crash. 

The results of several blood tests conducted on Kooyoomjian aren't currently available to the public, as prosecutors have said that they could be prejudicial should the case make it to trial.

Hampton District Court staff said Thursday that a probable cause hearing hasn't yet been scheduled for Kooyoomjian, although staff said the hearing will likely be held during the first or second week of December. 

If probable cause is found, the case will be bound over to Rockingham Superior Court.

Kooyoomjian is currently represented by Attorney Stephen Jeffco, of Portsmouth.