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Nov 04, 2023

Both drivers facing charges in I

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UPDATE (June 7): Maryland State Police said the second driver charged in the fatal Beltway crash is now in custody.

Lisa Adrienne Lea, 54, of Randallstown, surrendered Wednesday morning at the Maryland State Police Golden Ring Barrack, where she is being processed.

Lea was indicted on six counts of manslaughter, six counts of negligent homicide, six counts of causing the death of a vulnerable individual while operating a motor vehicle, driving under the influence, conducting an unsafe lane change, speeding, failure to control speed to avoid a collision, following a vehicle too closely, negligent driving and aggressive driving.

ORIGINAL STORY (June 6): The two drivers involved in the fatal crash on Interstate 695 that left six construction workers dead are facing charges.

According to the Baltimore County State Attorney's Office, both drivers have been indicted on multiple counts of manslaughter, reckless driving, and other charges stemming from the fatal crash.

Court testimony revealed the Volkswagen Jetta, driven by Melachi Brown, 20, of Baltimore, hit speeds of 122 mph just prior to the crash. Authorities said dash camera video from another vehicle showed Brown's car darting in and out of traffic.

"It was that type of driving that resulted in the death of six individuals," said assistant state's attorney Felise Kelly.

Brown was indicted on six counts of manslaughter, six counts of negligent homicide, six counts of causing the death of a vulnerable individual while operating a motor vehicle, conducting an unsafe lane change, speeding, failure to control speed to avoid a collision, following a vehicle too closely, negligent driving and aggressive driving.

During his bail review on Tuesday, Baltimore County District Court Judge Kathleen Murphy asked Brown whether he understood the charges. Brown said, "I understand the charges, but I don't understand why I am charged with them."

His comment sparked an outburst inside the courtroom which continued onto the street.

"He's innocent. They are trying to make it seem like he's not. He's innocent," said a female family member.

The judge ordered Brown on home detention and he is not allowed to drive.

Kelly sought a "no bail" status.

"I believe he is indeed a threat to the community," she said.

According to court testimony, Lisa Lea, 54, of Randallstown, who is also charged in the deadly crash, was driving 111 mph in her Acura. Police are trying to locate her and there is now a bench warrant for her arrest.

Investigators said Lea changed lanes, hitting Brown. The NTSB report states her Acura spun out of control, hitting the construction workers.

Lea was seriously hurt in the crash. Brown was not injured.

The prosecution was not happy about the outcome of the bail review.

"It's the judge's decision to release an individual. She made the determination that without him driving, he is no longer going to be a threat to the community," Kelly said.

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — UPDATE (June 7) ORIGINAL STORY (June 6):
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