EMSA Driver Charged In Deadly Oklahoma City Crash

An EMSA paramedic is charged with negligent homicide following a deadly crash.

Prosecutors filed the charge against Benjamin Samples for the crash that occurred on December 10.

12/12/2011 Related Story: Name Of OKC Man Killed In Collision With Ambulance Released

According to investigators, Samples was on Northwest 10th Street coming up on May Avenue when he crossed a double yellow line and collided with a car driven by Fidel Mesa-Solis, who had just made a left turn. Mesa-Solis died in the wreck.

Investigators say the ambulance was going 83 miles per hour in a 40 mile per hour speed zone.

EMSA released the following statement regarding the charge:

"This is an unfortunate incident. We have independently verified that the lights and siren were on during the entire course of events. All other aspects of this accident are undergoing further investigation. We have cooperated fully with the investigating authorities and will continue to do so."

Ed Blau, attorney for Samples, released the following statement Monday night:

"Mr. Samples acted with due care and full regard toward the motorists of Oklahoma City on December 10th, 2011. Mr. Samples followed all EMSA procedures and protocols in responding to an emergency; as such, he is innocent of the charge against him. However, as a dedicated EMSA employee and 33 year Oklahoma City resident, Mr. Samples is devastated by the tragedy that occurred at 10th and May. His thoughts and prayers go out to Mr. Solis' family and friends."