Pedestrian Killed by Drunk Driver

Victim: Autumn Soyka

On October 30th around 1:00am, Autumn Lynn Soyka, was attempting to cross the 1900 block of E. 7th Street when she was struck by the left front bumper of a 2004 Cadillac CTS being driven by Stephen Watts.

The collision occurred in the inbound right lane of E. 7th Street. Autumn Soyka was not crossing at an intersection and was not in a marked crosswalk at the time of the collision. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene of the collision due to injuries sustained during the crash.

Mr. Watts stopped and remained at the scene of the collision until police arrived. Field sobriety tests indicated Mr. Watts was impaired and he was placed under arrest and charged with DWI, Involuntary Manslaughter and License Restriction Violation.

Stephen Watts

The CMPD Major Crash Investigation Unit responded to the scene and conducted the investigation. Any person who witnessed the crash or has information about the case is asked to call Detective Sammis at 704-336-8862.  He is leading the investigation.

DON'T DRINK & DRIVE!!!  THIS COULD HAPPEN TO YOU!

* View Autumn Soyka's Memorial Website