DUI Driver Who Killed Girl, 9, Pleads Guilty

AURORA, IL — A drunk driver who killed a 9-year-old girl pleaded guilty on Friday. The victim, Katie Jonak, of Aurora, died Oct. 7, 2016 when Anthony S. Potochney's car was traveling 85 mph in a 35 mph zone through downtown Aurora. Potochney, 26, of the 900 block of North Avenue, pleaded guilty to three counts of aggravated DUI and failure to stop after an accident involving personal injury or death. Jonak's mother was driving her daughter and two girls home from a play rehearsal that night, according to authorities.

According to a press release from the Kane County State’s Attorney's Office, the mother was driving a minivan north on Broadway Street when a Cadillac that Potochney was driving south crossed into the northbound lane. When the Cadillac came to a stop, he fled on foot. The other girls were taken to the hospital for a hip injury and a bruised lung.

Four and a half hours after the accident, police found his blood had an alcohol concentration of .193 and he had weed in his system. Potochney admitted he had consumed six beers, 4 spiced rum drinks and consumed marijuana that evening.

His plea was accepted by Associate Judge Linda S. Abrahamson and his next court appearance is set for Jan. 16. He’s facing a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison.

Image courtesy of Kane County State's Attorney