Sentencing in 2017 fatal Bourne crash set for next week

BOURNE, Mass. — A crash on Bourne Bridge last July took the life of one woman and left others seriously injured.

Jose Portillo stood in the back of the courtroom Wednesday ready to enter a plea of guilty on charges involving a deadly crash. The family of Deborah Carney, who was killed in the crash, was there to make victim impact statements, but because of an issue with some paperwork and his certified identity, the judge continued the case.

Portillo is charged with speeding and negligent operation of his box truck on July 2, 2017. Police say he slammed into the back of Carney's Honda, killing the 61-year-old. Two of her granddaughters and another relative were in the car. One of the girls now wears a helmet due to traumatic brain injuries she suffered.

Portillo's attorney says the plea agreement was for five years of probation and he would lose his license for ten years. The agreement needs the judge's approval.

The case is scheduled back in court on September 17.

Cox Media Group