The recent arrest of Kyren Lacy, a highly touted NFL prospect, for negligent homicide and felony hit and run in Louisiana serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of leaving the scene of a collision. While Lacy’s case unfolded in Louisiana, its gravity underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for similar situations in Washington DC. This blog post examines DC’s “Leaving After Colliding” (LAC) laws, outlines potential penalties, and details crucial steps to take if you face a hit-and-run investigation. Lacy’s case, with its tragic outcome and the significant impact on his promising football career, offers a cautionary tale.
If you can’t watch the video, read the transcript of the information here:
“Have you received a hit-and-run investigation letter from D.C. police? The recent case of NFL prospect Kyne Lacy, a top wide receiver who tragically left the scene of an accident resulting in a fatality, shows just how serious these charges can be.
This letter from the police isn’t a friendly invitation—it’s the start of a legal investigation. It means the police believe your car was involved in a collision, and they want to talk. Don’t talk to them alone. Don’t respond without an experienced Washington, D.C. hit-and-run lawyer.
In D.C., even a minor accident can lead to jail time and a criminal record. At Monument Legal, we’re experts in defending against these charges. We’ll build a strong defense, negotiate with the prosecution, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t risk your future—contact us today for a free consultation.”
Lacy, a 24-year-old wide receiver who recently concluded a successful career at Louisiana State University (LSU), had declared for the 2025 NFL draft just days before his arrest. His impressive college career, marked by 26 touchdown catches in five seasons and a standout final season with 58 catches for 866 yards and nine touchdowns, positioned him as a top draft prospect. The tragic accident, however, abruptly halted this promising trajectory. According to Louisiana State Police, Lacy was driving a 2023 Dodge Charger when he recklessly passed multiple vehicles, crossing the centerline into oncoming traffic. This reckless maneuver led to a head-on collision with a Kia Sorento, tragically killing a 78-year-old passenger, Herman Hall. Lacy allegedly fled the scene without rendering aid or contacting emergency services.
This incident starkly contrasts with the typical misdemeanor hit and run cases handled in DC. While DC Code § 50-2201.05c outlines two main “Leaving After Colliding” (LAC) offenses—LAC-Property Damage (property damage only) and LAC-Personal Injury (resulting in injury)—Lacy’s case involved a fatality. In DC, such a scenario would likely result in far more serious felony charges, carrying substantially increased penalties compared to the misdemeanor LAC charges. The potential consequences would include:
Let’s look at DC’s LAC laws. Leaving After Colliding – Property Damage (LAC-PD), where a collision causes only property damage, is a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and/or a $250 fine. Leaving After Colliding – Personal Injury (LAC-PI), resulting in injury to another person, is also a misdemeanor but carries a significantly higher maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Both are prosecuted in DC Superior Court, with additional penalties like license suspension (automatic upon court notification to the DMV) and restitution for damages or medical expenses also possible. While judges often grant unsupervised probation in cases involving first-time offenders, no serious injuries, and demonstrable efforts at restitution, a conviction remains a permanent part of an individual’s record.
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) typically sends an investigative letter to the registered vehicle owner in suspected hit and runs. This letter isn’t a summons but signals an investigation and request for an interview. Your response (or lack thereof) significantly impacts the case. It is crucial to understand that you should not go to the police station without an attorney. At this stage, the police primarily know you own the vehicle; their goal during the interview is to place you behind the wheel. Likewise, do not respond to the letter without legal counsel. Any statement, regardless of intent, can be used against you.
Your immediate actions are vital, so contacting a skilled Washington DC hit and run lawyer immediately is crucial. Meticulously document details of the incident—date, time, location, and any pertinent information. Preserve potential evidence like photos, videos, or witness statements, following your attorney’s advice. Your attorney will advise on contacting your insurance company and law enforcement. Avoid contacting anyone involved without your attorney’s guidance.
Lacy’s case, with its tragic outcome and profound impact on his career, serves as a stark warning. His situation highlights the potential for devastating consequences when leaving the scene of a collision. In DC, a similar scenario involving death or serious injury would result in far more serious felony charges with far-reaching implications.
Monument Legal’s team of experienced hit and run lawyers in Washington DC, understands DC’s criminal traffic laws and the potential penalties for hit and run offenses. We protect your rights by thoroughly investigating, developing strategic defenses, negotiating with prosecutors, and representing you aggressively in court.