Father Who Used PCP Before Son's Death in Crash Sentenced

A Prince George’s County man driving more than 70 miles per hour before his car crashed – killing his young son and nearly severing his arm – was sentenced to prison Monday.

Charles Smith, 33, was convicted in July of motor vehicle manslaughter and other charges in the death of his 4-year-old son in May 2013, reports WUSA.

Smith was sentenced Monday to 10 years in prison for the crash, reports WTOP.

Police said Smith’s speeding vehicle was southbound on Bladensburg Road in Cottage City when he pulled into a turning lane and struck two vehicles, jumped a curb, and crashed into a utility pole, tree and brick retaining wall. Smith was thrown from his car, nearly severing his arm.

His 4-year old son, who was not buckled into a car seat, was also thrown from the vehicle and died from his injuries. The 7-year-old daughter of Smith’s girlfriend suffered minor injuries in the crash, according to officials.

In court, Smith’s attorneys admitted he had used PCP before the crash; he was not convicted of that act.