BUTTE — A local grandmother is seeking restitution nearly two years after her truck was totaled by a drunk driver.
On July 11, 2024, at approximately 1:36 a.m., Annissa Hastie and her granddaughter heard a loud crash outside their home. A drunk driver, traveling over 80 mph, collided with multiple vehicles before stopping on the sidewalk in front of a nearby apartment complex filled with college students.
According to authorities, the driver was charged with several misdemeanors and is currently in DUI court. Hastie stated that the impact on her truck prevented the driver from crashing into the apartment building, potentially saving lives.
The driver, described as a habitual offender, had a prior incident where he drove into a woman's home. The insurance from the accident had only minimal liability coverage, with eight vehicles affected and claims totaling over $300,000, but only $25,000 available for restitution.
Hastie, who lives on disability and cares for five children, has relied on a borrowed vehicle, which is not highway-worthy. She emphasized that the lack of reliable transportation has hindered her ability to attend medical appointments and care for her elderly mother and brother.
Hastie hopes sharing her experience will encourage accountability and prevent others from facing similar challenges. “If it protects one other person, that's what matters to me,” she said.