Man Dies After Girlfriend Allegedly Intentionally Crashed Car; Case Update

Tragic Car Crash and its Aftermath

• 💔 A young man, Daniel Waterman, 22, died after a severe car crash in February, initially caused by his girlfriend, Leigha Mumby, 24, who allegedly intentionally drove their SUV into a tree.
• 🚗 The crash occurred after an argument stemming from Mumby discovering her pregnancy and a text message Daniel received from another woman.
• 🗣️ Daniel, after waking from a coma, communicated to investigators that Mumby intentionally caused the crash, stating she told him, "I don't care what happens. You'll get what you deserve."

Legal Proceedings and Charges

• ⚖️ Leigha Mumby was initially charged with reckless driving and aggravated battery. Following Daniel's death, prosecutors amended the charges to include vehicular homicide.
• 🚗 Event Data Recorder (EDR) information indicated the vehicle was traveling at high speeds (93-95 mph) with the accelerator at 100% and no braking prior to impact.
• 👶 Mumby was pregnant at the time of the crash, and fortunately, the unborn baby survived and was later born.

Family's Grief and Fight for Justice

• 🎗️ Daniel's family, particularly his aunt Tiffany Waterman, is advocating for justice, emphasizing Daniel's desire for accountability before his passing.
• 💰 The family is facing significant medical bills, with a GoFundMe set up to help cover costs accumulated during Daniel's eight months in the hospital.
• 🤝 The family has legal counsel, John Hagar, to help navigate the legal process and communicate with the state attorney's office.

Legal Expert Analysis

• 💬 Criminal defense attorney Caseia Early discussed the potential admissibility of Daniel's statements under hearsay exceptions and the significance of a text message allegedly sent by Mumby indicating motive.
• ⚖️ Early noted that Mumby might have to testify to explain her actions and the text message, especially if the defense cannot explain critical aspects of the case.
• 📈 Vehicular homicide charges in Florida can carry penalties of up to 15 years in state prison, with potential enhancements if Mumby has a prior criminal record.