Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 53-year-old Kevin J. Czajka of Lancaster has been arraigned before Lancaster Town Justice Anthony J. Cervi on the following charges:

• One count of Aggravated Vehicular Assault, Class “C” felony
• One count of Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Class “D” felony
• One count of Leaving the Scene of an Incident Resulting in Death, Class “D” felony
• One count of Leaving the Scene of an Incident Resulting in Serious Physical Injury, Class “E” felony         
• Two counts of Driving While Intoxicated, Class “A” misdemeanors
• Three vehicle and traffic law violations

It is alleged that on August 28, 2020, at approximately 10:00 p.m., the defendant was driving a vehicle, while under the influence of alcohol, eastbound on Pleasant View Drive when he hit two teenage boys who were riding their bicycles. It is further alleged that the defendant fled the scene, but was located a short time later by Lancaster Police officers.

Both victims were taken to ECMC. One victim, 18-year-old Maytham Vukelic of East Aurora, died at the hospital. The second victim was hospitalized for multiple serious injuries, but has been released.  

Czajka is scheduled to return on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. for a felony hearing. Judge Cervi set bail at $25,000 cash, $50,000 bail bond, or $50,000 partially secured bond.

If convicted on all charges, Czajka faces a maximum of 15 years in prison.

DA Flynn commends the Lancaster Police Department for their work in the investigation.  

The case is being prosecuted by Chief Paul Glascott of the DA’s Vehicular Crimes Bureau.

As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.