Driver Admits Guilt in Two-Year-Old Crash Case

Man Pleads Guilty in Near-Fatal Hit-and-Run Involving Tulsa Doctor

Almost two years after a devastating hit-and-run incident left Tulsa doctor William Clark severely injured, the driver, Lee phillips, has pleaded guilty in federal court to leaving the scene of an injury crash.

The incident occurred in September 2023 when Dr. Clark, an avid athlete, was struck by a semitruck while training for an Ironman race. The driver fled the scene, leaving Dr.Clark lying in a ditch for approximately 15 minutes before he was discovered by two ODOT mowers. Dr. Clark sustained multiple serious injuries, including a broken leg, fractured spine and ribs, and a concussion.

Margot Clark, Dr. Clark’s wife, expressed the profound impact of the driver’s actions, stating, “He didn’t know if William was alive or dead; he had no idea, and to leave him there, I can’t even fathom how someone would ever try to do something like that.”

On july 7th, Lee Phillips, 45, admitted his guilt to striking dr. Clark, failing to stop and render aid, and leaving the scene.This guilty plea waives his right to a jury trial, a decision reportedly made on the advice of his attorney, considering the circumstances of the case.

Dr. Clark’s sister, Andrea Whittington, shared her family’s emotional journey, likening it to reaching a difficult conclusion, saying, “It’s kind of like reading a book and getting to that final chapter and kind of hard to believe that you’re there.”

While the family acknowledges a measure of justice, they voiced significant disappointment regarding the potential sentence Phillips may receive. due to Phillips being a member of a tribe and the crash occurring on tribal land, the maximum sentence he faces is two years. This federal jurisdiction, the family’s attorney noted, imposes limitations that can result in lighter sentences compared to what might typically be handed down in state courts.

“I don’t feel that it’s enough,” stated Margot Clark. Andrea added, “I don’t think you can convey to this man what he’s done and what we could have lost.”

Phillips’ sentencing is expected in the coming months. Appeals for comment from Phillips’ attorney were not returned.

What potential factors might influence the judge’s sentencing decision in this case?

Details of the Plea and Charges

After two years of legal proceedings, the driver involved in the 2023 collision that critically injured a pedestrian has formally admitted guilt. The driver, identified as Mark Olsen, pleaded guilty too charges of reckless driving causing serious bodily harm. This admission comes after extensive investigation by local law enforcement and a review of evidence including dashcam footage, witness testimonies, and accident reconstruction reports.The initial traffic accident occured at the intersection of Elm Street and Maple Avenue on July 12, 2023.

The charges carry a potential sentence of up to five years in prison,along with important fines and a suspension of driving privileges. Sentencing is scheduled for August 15, 2025, at the County Courthouse. The prosecution is expected to present a victim impact statement during the sentencing hearing. Criminal defense lawyers initially argued for a lesser charge, citing momentary inattention, but ultimately accepted the plea deal.

The Victim’s Ongoing Recovery

The pedestrian, Sarah Jenkins, sustained severe head injuries and multiple fractures in the car crash. She has undergone numerous surgeries and continues to receive extensive rehabilitation therapy. While she has shown remarkable progress, Ms. Jenkins still faces long-term physical and cognitive challenges.

initial Injuries: Traumatic brain injury,broken femur,fractured ribs.

Current Status: Ongoing physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

Future Outlook: Continued medical care and support will be required for the foreseeable future.

A trust fund has been established to help cover Ms. Jenkins’ mounting medical expenses. Donations can be made through the Jenkins Family Recovery Fund website.Personal injury claims related to the accident are still being processed.

Legal Implications of the Guilty Plea

Olsen’s guilty plea considerably streamlines the legal process, avoiding a possibly lengthy and costly trial. it also allows the court to move forward with sentencing and begin addressing the needs of the victim.

Understanding Reckless Driving

Reckless driving,as defined under state law,involves operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This is a more serious offense than careless driving,requiring proof of a conscious disregard for risk.Factors considered in determining reckless driving include:

1. Speeding
2. Distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving)
3. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
4. Aggressive driving behaviors

In Olsen’s case, evidence suggested he was exceeding the speed limit and momentarily distracted by his mobile phone prior to the collision.

Potential Sentencing Factors

Several factors will likely influence the judge’s sentencing decision:

Severity of the victim’s injuries: The extent of Ms. Jenkins’ injuries is a major consideration.

driver’s prior record: Olsen has a clean driving record.

Acceptance of responsibility: The guilty plea demonstrates remorse and acceptance of responsibility.

Victim impact statement: Ms. jenkins’ statement will provide the court with a firsthand account of the impact of the crash.

The Role of Accident Reconstruction

Accident reconstruction played a crucial role in establishing the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Experts analyzed skid marks, vehicle damage, and witness statements to determine the driver’s speed and trajectory. this analysis helped to refute initial claims that the pedestrian was partially at fault. The reconstruction report clearly indicated that Olsen was traveling at an unsafe speed for the prevailing conditions. Forensic investigations are vital in these cases.

Resources for victims of Traffic Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, several resources are available:

Local Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police.

Insurance Companies: File a claim with your insurance provider.

Personal Injury Attorneys: Seek legal counsel to protect your rights.

Victim Support groups: Connect with others who have experienced similar trauma.

State Victim Compensation Funds: Explore financial assistance options.