Two Drivers Engaged in a Race Prior to One Crashing, Resulting in the Death of a 15-Year-Old Pennsylvania Cheerleader, According to Prosecutors

Two Pennsylvania men, William Soliday (43) and Andrew Voigt (37), face serious charges after a deadly crash claimed the life of 15-year-old Samantha Kalkbrenner and injured four others. Tragically, authorities accuse Soliday and Voigt of engaging in a reckless street race, with Samantha's school van caught in the crossfire.

The head-on collision, involving a white Volkswagen Jetta driven by Soliday and the Serra Catholic High School van, happened in September in Dravosburg. Samantha, a beloved cheerleader, died at the scene. Three other students in the van were thrown from the vehicle on impact, showcasing the immense force of the crash.

"These kids are going to school," Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala Jr. stated, emphasizing the recklessness of the alleged race. "Driving is a privilege. You do stuff like this. You are a murderer."

Soliday faces heavy charges, including third-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter, and reckless driving charges, due to the alleged 90 mph speed and complete lack of skid marks before impact. Voigt allegedly didn't stop at the scene, adding to the severity of the situation.

This tragedy shatters lives and forces our community to confront the dangers of irresponsible driving. This wasn't just an accident; it was a conscious choice for thrill at the expense of innocent lives. Samantha, described as "the beating heart of her class" by her principal, is a stark reminder of the preciousness of life and the consequences of reckless behavior.

[SOURCE]