HONESDALE, Pa. – A Dunmore man was found guilty by a jury in Wayne County on charges related to a fatal accident that occurred over two and a half years ago in Texas Township. James Gerrity, 62, was convicted on Friday after a three-day trial. He faced charges of homicide by vehicle, aggravated assault by vehicle, involuntary manslaughter, recklessly endangering another person, and several traffic offenses, according to court records.
Wayne County District Attorney A.G. Howell stated that on July 26, 2021, Gerrity made a reckless choice by eating cookies while driving on state Route 6 in an attempt to treat his low blood sugar. This decision led to a crash that resulted in the death of Lou Radell and the injury of his wife, Mary. Howell emphasized that if Gerrity had pulled over to eat his cookies, Mary Radell would not have been seriously hurt, and Lou Radell would still be alive. Howell highlighted the importance of staying alert to surroundings, vehicles, and oneself to ensure road safety.
Gerrity’s attorney, Bernard Brown, expressed disappointment with the jury’s decision and mentioned that they are considering filing an appeal. Brown stated that he was unsure about what the jury saw during the trial. The collision between Gerrity and Radell occurred around 7 a.m., with Gerrity crossing into another lane while driving.
Lou Radell, 83, unfortunately passed away during surgery at Geisinger Community Medical Center approximately 3 and a half hours after the crash. Brown argued that Gerrity’s actions were not reckless, citing his client’s low blood sugar episode due to his diabetes condition. However, prosecutors presented evidence that Gerrity claimed to have eaten cookies while driving to treat his low blood sugar. They also argued that Gerrity’s glucose readings indicated normal levels leading up to the accident.
According to Wayne County District Attorney Howell, an eyewitness at the crash scene confirmed that Gerrity was awake, aware, conscious, alert, and responsive. The eyewitness also reported that Gerrity refused medical treatment. The jurors, including three individuals working in medicine but none with diabetes, deliberated for about two hours before reaching a verdict.
Gerrity is scheduled for sentencing on April 18, according to court records. The guilty verdict carries significant consequences for Gerrity, who will face the ramifications of his actions in the deadly wreck that occurred more than two and a half years ago.