Photo: Peter Dazeley / The Image Bank / Getty Images
A 23-year-old woman, Kali Seaman, has been charged following a tragic car crash in Oswego County that resulted in the death of a two-year-old boy. The incident occurred on July 9 when Seaman, reportedly under the influence of marijuana, lost control of her 2011 Chrysler minivan on State Route 49 in Hastings. The vehicle overturned and struck a utility pole, causing severe injuries to its passengers.
The young victim, identified as Westen K. Garcia, was taken to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, where he was pronounced dead. Westen's mother, Natalie Griffin, who was also in the vehicle, sustained minor injuries. According to Syracuse.com, Seaman was reportedly using her cellphone while driving, adding to the dangerous conditions.
Seaman turned herself in to authorities and was charged with first-degree vehicular manslaughter, aggravated driving while intoxicated under Leandra's Law, and driving while ability impaired by drugs. She was arraigned in Oswego County CAP Court and held on $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond, but has since been released.
The Oswego County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the incident. Seaman's actions have sparked discussions about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving, especially when children are involved. The community mourns the loss of Westen, a child remembered for his love of tractors and "Cocomelon."