The case involving a teenage illegal immigrant who fatally crashed into a 24-year-old Colorado woman has stirred significant controversy. The district attorney, viewed as progressive, negotiated a plea deal allowing the 15-year-old Colombian to avoid prison, instead receiving two years of probation and a requirement to complete 100 hours of community service. His identity remains protected under state law.
This tragic incident occurred in July 2024, when Kaitlyn Weaver, who was talking to her boyfriend on speakerphone, was hit at an intersection after waiting at a stop sign. Kaitlyn succumbed to her injuries two days later, after living on life support and ultimately donating her organs. Her father, John Weaver, described the event as an instant fatality.
During the incident, the teen was reportedly racing in his jeep at about 90 mph when the collision happened. John Weaver recalled that the district attorney’s office initially communicated a stance of “no plea offer” before the unexpected plea deal arose, which surprised the family.
As it stands, the plea agreement was reportedly influenced by state officials, including Senator Bernie Sanders and Governor Jared Polis, which John Weaver criticized. He contends that the prosecution has mishandled the situation, creating a problematic outcome. “They said by taking two years of probation, it’s actually more lenient than what a judge would have handed down if he had pleaded guilty,” he mentioned, highlighting his dismay at the legal process.
Matthew Durkin, representing the Weavers, expressed disgust over the deal, noting that Kaitlyn was at the prime of her life when her life was tragically taken. He pointed out the inherent conflict between immigration laws and the criminal justice system that have ultimately led to this heartbreaking outcome.
Local reports indicate that the teenager had taken his mother’s jeep without permission. While she stated he had plans to return to Colombia, he later sought asylum in the U.S. Ryan Brackley, an aide in Arapaho County, condemned the teen’s reckless actions, labeling them as irresponsible with permanent consequences.
Arapahoe County’s district attorney, Amy Padden, addressed the community regarding the incident, emphasizing the severe danger associated with speeding. In her statement on Facebook, she reiterated that Kaitlyn Weaver’s death stemmed from a crash involving a minor driving nearly twice the speed limit and stressed that speeding can lead to fatal outcomes, underscoring its dangers beyond merely driving under the influence.
