Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 11/09/06

Contact person(s):

Media Coordinator, Donna Edwards - 565-3099 Media Spokesperson, Assistant District Attorney Larry Scoufos Chief Deputy District Attorney: Joan Risse

Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California

JURY CONVICTS DEFENDANT IN STREET RACING DEATH CASE

District Attorney Stephan Passalacqua announced today that a Sonoma County jury convicted Shawn Aguirre in the death of Michelle Krshul. Ms. Krshul, seventeen years old at the time of her death, was driving her vehicle when she was struck and killed by Aguirre as he raced his truck with a Ford Mustang on West College Avenue in Santa Rosa on September 9, 2005.

The Sonoma County jury found Aguirre guilty of felony vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and misdemeanor violations of engaging in a speed contest and reckless driving causing bodily injury. He faces a maximum of six years in state prison for the felony offense.

District Attorney Passalacqua stated, “This case demonstrates the serious consequences that can result from street racing. It is a horrible tragedy that should make others think twice before engaging in such criminal conduct.”

Superior Court Judge Rene Chouteau immediately remanded Aguirre, age 23, into the custody of the Sheriff and set the sentencing date for December 12, 2006.

Deputy District Attorney Craig Brooks is the prosecutor assigned to this case. He was assisted by Santa Rosa Police Officer Brian Kohlman.