
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The driver accused of hitting and killing a CHOP doctor last summer as she rode her bike near Rittenhouse Square has pleaded guilty to all charges against him.
Michael Vahey admitted to fatally striking Barbara Friedes with his car last July. The 30-year-old oncology doctor was wearing a helmet and cycling in the bike lane along Spruce Street when she was struck, throwing her about 150 feet.
She was taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead, though officials said she likely died instantly.
Vahey had veered into the protected bike lane at about 60 mph. His blood-alcohol level was .16 — twice the legal limit.
His attorney, Amato Sanita, said Vahey has taken responsibility for the crash since the start.
“If he could switch places right now with her, he would do so,” said Sanita. “He is so remorseful for this. He has given any possible information and help in this case from the very outset, including turning himself in voluntarily, staying in jail — not even attempting to post bail or ask that he be released.”
The 69-year-old pleaded guilty on Tuesday to third-degree murder, homicide by vehicle, DUI, involuntary manslaughter and several other related charges.
He is set to be sentenced in July — a few days after the one-year anniversary of Friedes’ death.