A Columbia woman admits she was intoxicated when her vehicle struck a motorcyclist on Providence road in 2021, a motorcyclist who later died.
939 the Eagle News was at the Boone County Courthouse for Friday afternoon’s emotional hearing for 74-year-old Susan Hanel, who pleaded guilty to misdemeanor driving while intoxicated and to felony leaving the scene charges. Boone County prosecutors dropped felony involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action charges, as part of the plea agreement.
25-year-old Columbia motorcyclist Skylar Maddox was killed in the incident. His mother, Jenny Maddox, testified during Friday’s hearing, describing Susan Hanel as a “waste of oxygen.” Ms. Maddox sobbed in the courtroom, telling Boone County Circuit Judge Joshua Calvin Devine that seven-and-a-half years is not enough and that she has a broken heart with her son gone. She says the family still leaves an empty chair at the table for Skylar.
Ms. Maddox tells Judge Devine there is no justice. With her voice shaking at times, she told the court that Hanel is not remorseful and that she hopes Hanel suffers physical pain like her son did, adding that she hopes Hanel dies alone and is tormented. The entire courtroom was silent during Ms. Maddox’s testimony, although several people were crying.
Columbia Police say Ms. Hanel was northbound on Providence in November 2021, when she entered the center turn lane at East Sexton and failed to yield when making a left turn. CPD says Mr. Maddox was unable to avoid her vehicle and collided with the rear passenger side.
Boone County Sheriff’s deputies will transport Hanel to state prison later this week.
