Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Flaherty, Jr. announces 31-year old John Zakrzewski of Lancaster has been sentenced to 4-12 years in prison by State Supreme Court Justice Michalski.

On March 9, 2016, the defendant pleaded guilty to Vehicular Manslaughter in the 1^st Degree, a Class “C” Felony.

On December 9, 2015, at 10:10 p.m., the defendant was driving 105 miles an hour on Girdle Road approaching Bullis Road in the Town of Elma when his car struck a vehicle making a left turn onto Girdle Road and then his vehicle struck another car going in the opposite direction on Girdle Road.

The driver of the first vehicle that was struck was not hurt. The driver of the second car, 59-year old Guy Van Iderstine of Indiana died at the scene. Van Iderstine’s dog was also in the vehicle and was taken to an emergency veterinarian in Orchard Park where the animal died.

Zakrzewski exhibited signs of intoxication at the scene and had a blood alcohol content of .19%, more than twice the legal limit.

Justice Michalski also revoked the defendant’s driver’s license for one year following his release and any car he owns or has access to must be fitted with an ignition interlock for 60 months. 

Acting DA Flaherty praises the thorough investigation and hard work of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, including Sergeant Eric Kaderli, Deputy Simon Biegasiewicz, Deputy Jeffrey Ely and Deputy John Dunn.

Vehicular Crimes Bureau Chief Kelley Omel prosecuted the case.