Executive Summary
- David A. Murray sentenced to 4 years for failure to report a fatal accident.
- Victim Steven J. Coryell was killed while riding a motorized bicycle in Dec. 2024.
- Prosecutors originally sought the maximum 8-year sentence; two other felonies were dropped.
- Court documents reveal Murray attempted to conceal vehicle damage and initially misled police.
David A. Murray, 68, of Bethalto, Illinois, was sentenced to four years in prison on December 22 following a guilty plea regarding the 2024 hit-and-run death of Steven J. Coryell. The sentencing hearing took place in Madison County, where prosecutors had originally sought the maximum penalty allowed under the law.
According to court documents, Murray pleaded guilty in April to failure to report an accident resulting in death, a serious felony charge. As part of the sentencing arrangement, he will receive credit for time already served in custody. Under the terms of the plea agreement, two other Class 4 felonies—leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death and obstruction of justice—were dismissed.
The fatal incident occurred on the afternoon of Sunday, December 29, 2024, in the 3900 block of Humbert Road in Alton. Investigators reported that Coryell, 58, was operating a motorized bicycle when he was struck by a 2017 Ford F-150 driven by Murray. Deputies arriving at the scene found Coryell in the roadway; he was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 6:30 p.m.
Court filings state that Murray failed to stop or render aid following the collision. Witnesses provided descriptions of the vehicle, leading deputies to canvas the area and eventually locate Murray. Law enforcement officials noted that upon initial contact, Murray claimed the damage to his truck was caused by striking a deer nearly a year prior. However, officers observed fresh damage consistent with the recent collision.
Further investigation revealed attempts to conceal the evidence. Police reports indicate that Murray had washed the vehicle and applied tape to cover the damaged areas to obstruct law enforcement efforts. According to the court records, Murray later admitted to hitting "something" and told deputies, "You’re going to find out anyway." Documents also allege Murray stated he was unsure if he would have contacted authorities even if he had known he struck a person.
Judicial Review and Sentencing Standards
The four-year prison term imposed on Murray represents a mid-range outcome for the charge, contrasting with the eight-year maximum sentence requested by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. This case highlights the role of plea negotiations in the judicial process, where ancillary charges—such as obstruction of justice—are often dismissed to secure a definitive conviction on the primary offense. The resolution of this case brings legal finality to the 2024 incident, emphasizing the strict legal obligations for drivers to remain at the scene of accidents involving personal injury. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
