(Sioux Falls, SD) — A teen being held responsible for a deadly crash in a Sioux Falls neighborhood back in April will be tried as an adult. The hearing for Damion Laurelez, who is now 18, finished at the Minnehaha County courthouse on Friday. Witnesses, law enforcement members and others took the stand throughout the week. Graphic video of the crash scene from police body cameras was also shown in court. Laurelez was 17 at the time, driving at a high rate of speed before the crash that left two kids dead, and several others hurt. The group had left a party involving drugs and alcohol. Laurelez faces several charges including manslaughter, vehicular homicide and DWI. The judge ultimately decided the case will be held in adult court to protect the public from the now 18-year-old, and it’s unlikely he’ll be acquitted. Laurelez will remain in the Minnehaha County Jail as he awaits trial.
