Honduran man illegally in Arkansas facing homicide, DUI charges in deadly crash

PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. – A man from Honduras living in Arkansas illegally faces several charges including negligent homicide and driving under the influence in connection with a deadly crash in Pulaski County.

According to Arkansas State Police, 30-year-old Maynor Yair Sorto-Herrera was arrested on Sept. 9 in connection with a crash that killed 48-year-old Jennifer Ann Morton of Little Rock near Arch Street.

ASP officials said that Herrera was driving a truck south on Arch Street on the morning of Sept. 8 when his vehicle crossed into the northbound lane, striking Morton’s car.

Special agents said that Herrera was found walking away from the scene and taken to a local hospital for treatment for his injuries. He was later taken to the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility, ASP officials said.

ASP Colonel Mike Hagar shared his agency’s condolences for the family of Morton, who worked as a respiratory therapist in the infant toddler unit at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

“Our hearts are heavy for the Morton family as they are devastated by the loss of Jennifer, who devoted her life to compassionate care of children,” Hagar said. “I know our Troopers want to honor her memory by doing their part to make sure this man is held responsible for her death.”

ASP investigators said that Herrera is a native of Honduras and has been illegally residing in Alexander.

Herrera was charged with negligent homicide, battery, DUI, violation of the concealed weapons act, reckless driving, driving without a license, failure to stop after accident with death and other traffic violations.

He had his first hearing on Sept. 10, where he pleaded not guilty to his charges. Herrera is scheduled to be back in court in November. He is currently being held on a $150,000 bond.

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