News

Man pleads guilty to crashing into bleachers, killing man

Man pleads guilty to crashing into bleachers, killing man

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


PORTLAND, Maine (AP) A driver who crashed into bleachers at a youth baseball game, killing a 76-year-old man, pleaded guilty to manslaughter, driving under the influence and reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon on Tuesday.

Jonathan Burt, 31, of Lisbon, was sentenced in Cumberland County Superior Court to four-and-a-half years in prison, the Portland Press Herald reported.

The vehicle crashed into bleachers at Deering Oaks Park and came to a rest on a playground in July 2020. First responders administered two doses of Narcan to Burt. The victim, meanwhile, died the following day.

Through his attorney, Burt told the victim’s family that he was sorry. His attorneys said he’s now in recovery from substance abuse disorder.

The victim, Celestin Muhizi, had moved to Portland from Rwanda a year earlier to live closer to his son. The married father of nine was a teacher and a survivor of the Rwandan genocide of 1994.

Latest Headlines

8 hours ago in Sports, Trending

FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale amid high demand and many uncertainties

Not even half of the spots in the 48-team field have been claimed. The schedule of matches won't be finalized until December. And other than host nations U.S., Canada and Mexico, nobody has any idea where or when they'll be playing.

13 hours ago in Local

Aroostook County Democrat is Latest Candidate to Run for Sen. Collins Seat

He becomes the eighth Democratic candidate to oppose Collins

20 hours ago in Local

Collins, King Vote for Failed Plan to Block Govt Shutdown

Senator King notably broke with Democrats, whom he typically sides with, to back the spending plan.

21 hours ago in Local

Maine Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Whale, Bird Parts

The man was investigated as part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s Operation Raw Deal.

23 hours ago in Local

Anthem requests extension of deadline as negotiations with Northern Light stall

A spokesperson for Anthem insurance says the company has requested that Northern Light Health extend a deadline for reimbursement negotiations.