Charges were upgraded Monday for a man accused of fatally hitting a student with his car outside Downers Grove North High School last week, prosecutors said.
The DuPage County State's Attorney's office said Joseph Kucharski now faces felony charges for aggravated DUI resulting in death and one count of reckless homicide in the death of junior Beth Dunlap.
Kucharski was taken into custody last week and charged with felony aggravated DUI and felony reckless driving. The upgraded charges mean he faces three to 14 years in prison if convicted.
School officials confirmed Monday that Dunlap has passed away following the crash.
"Those who know Beth know that she was a fierce competitor and a strong person," Principal Janice Schwarze said in a school announcement. "As hard as this loss is for all of us, I believe that she would want us to be strong and take care of each other. In fact, Beth’s family has ensured that she will take care of others by donating her organs. While this tragedy has forever changed the lives of many in our community, the lives of other people have new hope because of Beth."
Dunlap was struck by a car while crossing Main Street outside the school around 11 a.m. Tuesday, according to a statement issued by DuPage County police.
The student was within a marked crosswalk and had a "walk" signal, according to police, when Kucharski's vehicle allegedly crossed into the oncoming lanes and entered the intersection on a red light, police said.
Local
Kucharski did remain on the scene after the crash, police said.
School officials said Dunlap was a volleyball player who wore the number 18.
"Consider doing something positive in regards to this number in her honor," Schwarze said. "For example, you might perform 18 random acts of kindness. You might donate $18 to a charity. Do what feels right."
The school also held a moment of silence for 18 seconds.
