Man Charged with Vehicular Homicide of Officer Christine Guerin Sandoval to Stand Trial

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — A man accused of killing Officer Christine Guerin Sandoval in a hit-and-run incident will face trial, as reported by The Gazette, our trusted news partner.

Officer Christine Guerin Sandoval lost her life while on duty in Colorado Springs last September. She was working with two other officers to serve arrest warrants on a parolee when the tragic incident occurred.

Officer Christine Guerin Sandoval Identified as Victim of Fatal Hit and Run Crash

Watch the video below to learn more about this devastating incident:

The parolee identified as 42-year-old Justin Kula has been taken into custody and is currently facing several charges, including vehicular homicide, vehicular assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, manslaughter, and three counts for being a habitual criminal.

During a preliminary hearing held on Monday, the prosecution presented three witnesses who were detectives from the Colorado Springs Police Department. These witnesses extensively reviewed the facts outlined in the arrest affidavit.

The detectives discussed the parole officers’ search for Kula on the day of the incident. Kula’s ex-wife had expressed concerns about his health and contacted law enforcement, requesting them to locate him. She mentioned that Kula was avoiding medical attention due to an outstanding warrant and had been missing appointments with his parole officer.

The detectives testified that the three parole officers approached Kula in his vehicle at a convenience store in Downtown Colorado Springs. Kula then fled the scene, hitting and fatally injuring Officer Sandoval in the process.

Lead detective Ashton Gardner presented several videos that captured the incident, providing clear evidence of Kula’s actions.

Recent evidence has also surfaced, revealing a similar encounter between Kula and law enforcement in Fountain in 2020. During a traffic stop, a Fountain police officer discovered an active warrant for Kula’s arrest. Gardner stated that Kula attempted to flee the scene and assaulted the officer before making his getaway.

The defense requested an arraignment hearing, which has been scheduled for six weeks from now on February 23. At the arraignment, the defendant will have the opportunity to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. According to the “speedy trial” requirement, if Kula pleads not guilty, a trial will be set within 180 days.

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