Accused Drunk Driver Arraigned On Vehicular Manslaughter Charge for Killing Pedestrian

Curtis L. Hall, Jr

Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 36-year-old Curtis L. Hall, Jr. of Buffalo was arraigned on Saturday morning before Buffalo City Court Judge Rebecca Town on one count of Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree (Class “D” felony) and one count of Driving While Intoxicated (unclassified misdemeanor).

It is alleged that on Friday, December 15, 2023, at approximately 9:37 p.m., the defendant was driving a vehicle at a high-rate of speed, while under the influence of alcohol, when he hit a pedestrian on the 1000 block of William Street in the City of Buffalo. The victim, a 69- year-old male who was crossing the street, died at the scene.

Hall is scheduled to return on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. for a felony hearing. He was released on bail set at $7,500 cash, bond or partially secured bond.

If convicted of the highest charge, Hall faces a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison. DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department Accident Investigation Unit for their work in this investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Christopher M. McCarthy of the Vehicular Crimes Bureau.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.