Tragic Crash Leads to Vehicular Homicide Charges in Florida

On February 9, 2023, a high-speed crash in Flagler County, Florida, resulted in the death of 22-year-old Daniel Waterman and led to his girlfriend, 24-year-old Leigha Mumby, being charged with vehicular homicide. The couple was reportedly arguing when Mumby accelerated to over 90 mph before crashing into a tree. Waterman, who was critically injured, later accused Mumby of intentionally causing the crash. He died from his injuries on October 8, prompting authorities to upgrade Mumby's charges.

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According to reports from the Florida Highway Patrol, the argument between Mumby and Waterman escalated after he received a text from another woman. During the confrontation, Mumby allegedly made a chilling statement: "I don't care what happens, you'll get what you deserve," before speeding up and crashing the vehicle. Waterman suffered multiple severe injuries, including broken bones and spinal damage, and was placed in a coma after the accident. He regained consciousness long enough to inform investigators of Mumby's role in the crash.

WSYX - abc6onyourside.comLast words of Florida man who woke from coma, made damning statement about his girlfriend to police, and then diedWoman - whose boyfriend woke up from coma, accused her of trying to kill him, then died - allegedly issued chilling 10-word threatFox News (website)Milwaukee Journal-SentinalFirst State UpdateNew York Daily News

Mumby was initially arrested in July 2023 and charged with reckless driving causing serious bodily injury and aggravated battery. Following Waterman's death, prosecutors upgraded the charges to vehicular homicide. Mumby was booked into the Flagler County Jail and later released on a $150,000 bond. Her family has expressed concern over the custody of the newborn child she had shortly after the crash, with Waterman's family seeking custody pending a paternity test.

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Waterman's family has publicly expressed their satisfaction with the charges against Mumby. John Hager, the family's attorney, stated, "There are no real winners in this situation... the family is satisfied with how the State Attorney's office in Flagler County has been working diligently." Waterman's grandfather emphasized the family's commitment to ensuring the child is raised in a safe environment, stating, "We can't let the baby grow up with a mom that could possibly do this."

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While the family of Daniel Waterman supports the charges, there are nuances in the narrative. Mumby has claimed she does not remember the events leading up to the crash, which raises questions about her intent. The defense may argue that the incident was not premeditated, complicating the legal proceedings.

Woman - whose boyfriend woke up from coma, accused her of trying to kill him, then died - allegedly issued chilling 10-word threat

• “I don't care what happens. You'll get what you deserve.” — Daniel Waterman, prior to the crash.

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• “This was not an accident,” — John Hager, attorney for Waterman’s family.

Woman - whose boyfriend woke up from coma, accused her of trying to kill him, then died - allegedly issued chilling 10-word threat

• “We’ll do whatever we can do to bring her to us,” — Heather Waterman, on seeking custody of the newborn.

Last words of Florida man who woke from coma, made damning statement about his girlfriend to police, and then died

As legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the upcoming court dates related to Mumby's charges and the custody battle for Waterman's child. The case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic disputes and reckless driving, raising broader questions about accountability and safety on the roads.

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