Driver in Chavez fatal hit-and-run pleads no contest
Lau Van Huynh appeared in Santa Barbara Superior Court Thursday morning and pleaded no contest to one count of felony hit-and-run driving.
Huynh was arrested in January on charges of fleeing the scene when his car struck and killed Simon Chavez. Deputy District Attorney Sanford Horowitz said Huynh will be placed on three years felony probation.
Chavez’ body was discovered on Highway 101 near Carrillo Street in Santa Barbara by CHP officers in the early morning hours of Jan. 15.
Sentencing is scheduled for April 4 in Department 11 of Santa Barbara Superior Court where he faces up to 365 days in custody.
Huynh faces a maximum of four years in prison if he violates his probation.
