NORTH BRANFORD, CT — A 42-year-old man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the fatal hit-and-run that killed 67-year-old David Horbal on Foxon Road on March 28, 2024.
According to the New Haven Judicial District State’s Attorney, the suspect, originally from Myakka City, Florida, was driving under the influence and was traveling at 75 to 80 mph when he struck Horbal, who was walking home from work. After the incident, he fled to Florida, prompting a police investigation.
Authorities reported that the driver, after the collision, instructed a coworker to damage his truck using a skid steer to hide evidence. The suspect’s vehicle was later found with repaired damage and egg shell particles from the impact incidentally located on the passenger side headlight.
Witnesses stated the passenger in the truck pleaded with the driver to stop and seek help. Video footage captured the driver disposing of a bag from the truck’s front grill shortly after the incident.
On June 10, the suspect pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree manslaughter, evading responsibility, and tampering with physical evidence. The court suspended part of his sentence, stipulating he will serve 10 years followed by five years of probation.