Teen Charged with Vehicular Manslaughter for DWI Drug Accident

A St. Louis teenager has been charged with vehicular manslaughter following a DWI accident that occurred on Sept. 14.

Although criminal charges were not initially expected, 17-year-old Christopher Ransfer is now facing vehicular manslaughter charges stemming from an accident in which he struck and killed 83-year-old Lionel Speidel.  Ransfer was driving while intoxicated by marijuana when the accident took place.

Police believe Speidel dangerously stepped out in front of Ransfer's car. Because Ransfer was cooperating with the police investigation, no charges were filed.  However, police decided to press charges after toxicology reports indicated that Ransfer had marijuana in his system at the time of the accident.

Ransfer, who is now being held on $150,000 bond, could face incarceration in state prison, large fines, driver's license revocation, mandatory DUI classes, community service, and restitution to the victim's family if he is found guilty. But because evidence suggests that Speidel stepped into the crosswalk in a dangerous manner, Ransfer's sentence could be reduced.

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