Accident – death – Obituary News :

Driver of Alleged Stolen Pickup Faces Life in Prison After Fatal Crash

A man who led deputies on a high-speed chase in a stolen pickup truck before causing a fatal crash is now facing charges that could result in a lifetime behind bars, according to court documents. James Everett Thomas, 35, is currently being held on $725,000 bail for six felony counts, including second-degree murder and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. In addition, he is charged with two misdemeanors.

The Serious Charges and Bail Amount

Thomas, the alleged driver of the stolen vehicle, is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing in March. The charges against him carry severe consequences, with the potential for a life sentence if convicted. His bail amount of $725,000 reflects the seriousness of the allegations.

A Tragic Incident and Loss of Life

The incident began when a deputy patrolling in Oildale on September 2 discovered that a brown pickup truck had been reported stolen. Upon attempting to pull the vehicle over, the driver, later identified as Thomas, engaged in a reckless high-speed chase. Unfortunately, this pursuit ended in tragedy as Thomas lost control of the stolen vehicle and collided with another car near Yosemite Drive and Lincoln Avenue.

Law enforcement officials described Thomas’ driving as reckless, with excessive speed being a contributing factor to the crash. Following the collision, Thomas was promptly apprehended and taken into custody. However, his passenger, Renee Anette Stansbury, 38, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at Kern Medical. The coroner’s report confirmed that she died from blunt force chest trauma.

Preliminary Hearing and Legal Proceedings

As Thomas awaits his preliminary hearing in March, the court filings provide a detailed account of the events leading up to the fatal crash. The evidence suggests that Thomas displayed a blatant disregard for public safety by driving recklessly and at high speeds. These actions ultimately resulted in the loss of an innocent life.

If convicted, Thomas may face severe consequences, including a potential life sentence. The upcoming preliminary hearing will serve as a crucial step in determining the appropriate charges and potential penalties for his actions.

It is important to remember that the charges against Thomas are allegations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As the legal process unfolds, more details will emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Renee Anette Stansbury, who have suffered an unimaginable loss. The impact of this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise from dangerous and irresponsible behavior on the road.

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