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In Albany County, Bethlehem Police arrested Saratoga County resident Matthew Monthie, age 28, of Clifton Park on Friday, June 7, on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter and related charges in the death of Shawna Marzahl.
Investigators said Monthie was driving westbound on Route 85 near the Albany city limits when he crossed over the center line and struck the 53-year-old Marzahl in the eastbound lane just before 7 a.m. Wednesday, May 1.
Marzahl, of Selkirk, suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
Due to the impact of the crash, the vehicle directly behind Marzahl was struck by debris and sustained damage. The driver of the third car, a 20-year-old Slingerlands man, was unharmed.
Monthie was taken to Albany Medical Center Hospital with what police described as non-life-threatening injuries.
Following his arrest Friday, he was arraigned on the following charges:
- Manslaughter (felony)
- Vehicular manslaughter (felony)
- Assault (felony)
- Driving while intoxicated (misdemeanor)
- Driving while ability impaired by drugs or alcohol (misdemeanor)
- Reckless endangerment (misdemeanor)
He was arraigned in Albany County Court and released on $75,000 bond.
Meanwhile, friends and loved ones continue mourning the loss of Marzahl, who leaves behind a husband of 12 years and two children.
"Shawna's radiant spirit illuminated the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark of warmth and kindness," reads her obituary.
"Sadly, she departed this world on May 01, 2024, in Bethlehem, NY, leaving behind a legacy of love that will forever be treasured."
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