Preliminary Hearing in Vehicular Homicide Delayed Amid Plea Negotiations

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A defendant accused in a traffic fatality alerted DC Superior Court Judge Rainey Brandt of her plans to accept a plea deal at a preliminary hearing on Aug. 6.

Olivia Ayong, 49, is charged with negligent homicide for her alleged involvement in the fatal car crash that claimed the life of 72-year-old Ralph Williams on Nov. 25, 2022, on the 900 block of K Street, NE.

According to court documents, Williams had his car double-parked with the blinkers on and was unloading groceries from a truck when he was struck and pinned between Ayong’s and his vehicle. He was transported to MedStar hospital where he was pronounced dead from blunt force trauma to his legs and pelvis.

Also according to court documents, Ayong, who works as a home healthcare provider, was transporting a patient at the time of the incident. She tested negative for alcohol and drug use, and the patient in her vehicle said Ayong was not using her phone at the time.

A plea offer was discussed between parties, but not disclosed in court, and defense attorney John Harvey said Ayong is “inclined to accept.”

The final deal has yet to be consummated. The prosecution mentioned the victim’s family has objections and wants to be present when Ayong agrees to the terms.

Judge Brandt requested that only one person speak on behalf of the family during the hearing, as she will not tolerate any disrespectful behavior.

Parties are slated to return on Aug. 30.