Nyack Woman Admits To DWI, Leaving Scene Of Deadly Crash

NYACK, NY — A Hudson Valley woman has admitted to being behind the wheel when her car was involved in a crash that destroyed lives in a plea deal.

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh, II announced that 45-year-old Elizabeth Mitchell, of Nyack, pleaded guilty to the indictment charging her with aggravated vehicular homicide, second-degree manslaughter, second-degree vehicular manslaughter, second-degree assault, second-degree vehicular assault, leaving the scene of an incident resulting in death, leaving the scene of an incident resulting in serious physical injury, reckless driving, and driving while intoxicated, in exchange for the court's promised sentence of 7-21 years in state prison.

At the time of her plea, the DA's Office recommended the maximum sentence of 8 1/3-25 years in state prison.

Prosecutors say that on June 9, 2024, Mitchell drove drunk at speeds close to 70 mph in a 30 mph zone, causing her to lose control of her car, run a stop sign, and crash into a metal barrier and fence. She then fled the scene, despite the "catastrophic" injuries to her passengers, and never reported the crash, according to the DA's office.

The front seat passenger, Jahaad Muhammad, died as a result of the crash, while the backseat passenger, Devonte Jones, was seriously injured.

"The actions of the defendant on that day resulted in the death and serious injury of two passengers in her vehicle. Traffic laws are in place to protect all drivers and their passengers," DA Walsh said. "The defendant has multiple prior driving under the influence convictions from California, one of which included a hit and run. She will now be held accountable for her actions. I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim and the continued recovery to the injured passenger."

The case was investigated by the Orangetown Police Department. Mitchell is scheduled for sentencing on July 22.