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Drivers Were Street Racing Before High-Speed Crash That Killed 62-Year-Old: Montco DA

Evan Buckman of Pennsburg and Aidan Jarrett of Quakertown, both 19, surrendered to police on Monday, March 11, prosecutors said. 

Investigators said the wreck happened at the corner of Bethlehem Pike and Bergey Road on May 17, 2023. Louis and Ida Lillo were turning left from the Pike onto Bergey Road when their Nissan Frontier was T-boned by Jarrett’s southbound Mitsubishi Lancer, authorities said. 

The force of the crash knocked the Nissan on its side and sent it traveling through the intersection, according to the DA's Office. Jarrett was found standing outside his burning Mitsubishi and Buckman pulled over in a nearby parking lot, prosecutors said. 

The Lillos, of Hatfield, were extricated from their car and taken to Grand View Hospital where Ida was pronounced dead, authorities said. 

The post-crash investigation found "no mechanical issues that could have contributed" to the wreck, said prosecutors. Data from Jarrett's car's airbag control module found he was going 110 mph on the 55-mph road just 4.9 seconds before the crash, according to authorities. 

Buckman was going 95 mph prior to the crash, investigators believe. 

In addition to homicide by vehicle, each is charged with aggravated assault by vehicle, recklessly endangering another person, illegal racing, and reckless driving. Jarrett is also charged with simple assault and driving more than 55 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.

Magisterial District Judge Katherine E. McGill set bail at $50,000 unsecured for both men, with the added condition that they cannot drive, said the DA's Office. 

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 20. 

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