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Cedric Galette, 47, was arrested following an investigation into the crash that killed Troy Rivera, according to the release.
The fatal crash happened at the intersection of North Fifth Street and Cheltenham Avenue in Cheltenham Township on Wednesday, Sept. 18, the DA explained, noting that Rivera passed away in the hospital 10 days after the crash.
Galette was discovered to have been driving 60 mph in a 30 mph with his 2007 Cadillac CTS's lights off while under the influence of PCP when he struck Rivera's vehicle, the DA's office said.
At the same time, Rivera was legally driving through the intersection, according to the affidavit. The impact of the crash pushed Rivera's vehicle into a traffic light pole and utility pole, causing his death.
No skid marks were found in the roadway, which contributed to evidence that indicated Galette didn't attempt to avoid the crash, the affidavit states. Investigators also found that Galette's vehicle registration was suspended and his insurance coverage had lapsed.
Blood tests conducted on Galette found PCP in his system and multiple jars containing the drug were found in his vehicle, according to the affidavit.
Galette was arrested on Tuesday, Oct. 29 and charged with:
- Felony Homicide by Vehicle.
- Felony Homicide by Vehicle while DUI.
- Misdemeanor DUI Controlled Substance - Schedule One - First Offense.
- Misdemeanor DUI Controlled Substance - Impaired Ability - First Offense.
- Misdemeanor Intentional Possession of a Controlled Substance by Person not Registered.
He also received multiple summary charges for various driving violations, according to court documents.
Galette is being held in Montgomery County Prison on $50,000 bail, court documents state. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 4.
Galette had faced charges for marijuana use and DUI in 2008 and 2015, respectively, according to court documents. He was also charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangerment in 2005 and theft in 2014.
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