Chicago, IL–(ENEWSPF)– A man who prosecutors say was driving in a drug-fueled haze pleaded not guilty Friday to striking and killing a 48-year-old Rogers Park woman and severely injuring her son in late December.
Ralph Eubanks of the 1400 block of North Sedgwick was indicted Jan. 19 on one count each of first-degree murder, aggravated DUI and leaving the scene of an accident, Cook County State’s Attorney’s office spokesman Andy Conklin said.
He pleaded not guilty Friday and a status hearing was scheduled for March 15, Conklin said.
Eubanks is accused in the Dec. 21 crash that killed Maria Worthon.
Just a minute after officers stopped him for driving without headlights, Eubanks slammed into Worthon with his green Pontiac Grand Prix, throwing her in the air and causing her to land 100 feet from the accident at the 7000 block of N. Greenview, Assistant State’s Attorney Sara Grgurovic said during the bond hearing.
Worthon’s 6-year-old son, Jeremiah, lay in the street bleeding from his head and mouth as Eubanks, who has never had a valid driver’s license, allegedly drove off.
Jeremiah was originally hospitalized with spinal injuries, swelling of the brain, brain contusions, skull fractures, a right tibia fracture and facial fractures, Grgurovic said.
Traces of ecstasy, cannabis and a cocaine metabolite were discovered in Eubanks’ system following his arrest, Grgurovic said.
There was no alcohol in his blood.
Eubanks, a convicted felon, continued eluding police after the accident, authorities said.
When officers tried to stop him at the 6400 block of N. Newgard, he put his Grand Prix in reverse, striking parked cars, Grgurovic said.
Eubanks was caught when his car broke down and he tried to run away, Grgurovic said.
Eubanks has three prior convictions for driving on a revoked or suspended license, and has also been convicted of unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of a controlled substance.
He is being held without bond.
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