SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused in a fatal hit-and-run that killed a teen was back in court for an arraignment hearing.
On Friday, 20-year-old Gauge Brasher pleaded not guilty to unintentional but reckless second-degree murder and failure to stop at an accident resulting in the death of 14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He will go to trial on June 29th, according to the district attorney's office.
Around 6:30 p.m. August 13, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of the crash that killed 14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.
The preliminary investigation indicated the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a power pole and then a utility box. The impact forced the power pole and utility box into Nzabonimpa, who died on scene from his injuries.
Witnesses at the intersection identified the then 19-year-old Brasher, who fled as the driver. He is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
The investigation indicated that impairment and speed were likely contributing factors in the collision. Brasher was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment and later left the hospital. Police issued an alert in attempt to locate him. The passenger in the BMW is a 24-year-old man who was detained and later released with no charges.
Brasher is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.