Attorney: Blood samples are 'key' to defense of fatal accident

Jan. 18—MIFFLINBURG — The defense attorney of a Mifflinburg man charged in a fatal accident is awaiting the results of blood samples from NMS Labs in Horsham.

On Thursday, Defense Attorney Robert Hoffa, of Williamsport, was granted a continuance by Union County Judge Michael Piecuch in the case against Benjamin Martin, 36, of Mifflinburg. Martin is charged in the death of Spencer Charles, 30, of Montgomery, following a head-on collision on Grand Valley Road on July 1.

The blood results are "key to the case," said Hoffa.

Martin was allegedly driving under the influence of methamphetamine and amphetamine when he caused the fatal accident, according to court documents. Spencer was pronounced dead at the scene.

Martin allegedly exhibited signs of impairment, including dilated pupils, profuse sweating and bloodshot eyes, at the scene of the accident, according to police reports. Martin agreed to field sobriety tests and allegedly exhibited numerous indicators of impairment, police said.

Initially, Martin said he had not taken anything, but later admitted he injected a white powder between 8 and 9 p.m. June 30, according to court documents. He was placed under arrest and agreed to a blood draw, police said.

Authorities said the blood results showed that Martin had methamphetamine, amphetamine and caffeine in his system.

Martin was charged with a felony count of homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence (DUI) and other related charges.

Martin is free on $35,000 cash bail. His next court appearance is not yet scheduled.