A Florida tragedy took a harrowing turn when a young man who survived a catastrophic car crash briefly awoke from a coma to reveal that his pregnant girlfriend had allegedly caused the accident deliberately.
Daniel Waterman’s statements to authorities have now led prosecutors to upgrade charges against Leigha Mumby, who is accused of intentionally driving into a tree — an act that ultimately claimed his life.
Leigha Mumby, 24, faces new charges following the February 9 crash on Interstate 95 in Flagler County that left her boyfriend, 22-year-old Daniel Waterman, critically injured. Investigators say an argument between the couple escalated, culminating in Mumby allegedly swerving the vehicle into a tree.
During a brief period of lucidity in May, Waterman reportedly confirmed to police, using a communication board, that the crash was deliberate. Authorities note that data from the car’s event recorder supports his account, suggesting the collision was intentional.
After months in a coma, Waterman passed away on October 8 due to pneumonia while recovering in New York.
Reports indicate that tensions were high after Mumby learned she was pregnant on the day of the crash. Arguments reportedly intensified over the pregnancy and Mumby’s suspicions that Waterman had contacted an ex-girlfriend. A text sent from Waterman’s phone shortly before the crash read, “This is what he gets for being a liar and a cheater.” Vehicle data shows Mumby was traveling at 90 mph moments before the car veered off the highway.
Mumby was initially arrested in July on charges including reckless driving causing serious bodily harm and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. She was released on $25,000 bond. With Waterman’s death, prosecutors have now added a charge of vehicular homicide. She remains free on bond and is scheduled to appear in court on November 19.
Waterman’s mother has expressed plans to seek custody of the unborn baby girl. “We’ll do whatever we can to bring her to us,” she told Syracuse.com.
Conclusion
This tragic case underscores the devastating impact of deliberate recklessness on the road. While Leigha Mumby faces serious new charges, attention also turns to protecting the unborn child and pursuing justice for Daniel Waterman’s untimely death.