KALISPELL, Mont. — A man faces a vehicular homicide charge following a fatal DUI crash on Nov. 1, 2023, in Flathead County.
Tyrel Eaton, 36, was booked on July 3 and pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he could face a maximum of 30 years in prison and a $50,000 fine. Authorities scheduled a jury trial for Oct. 14.
According to court documents, Eaton allegedly caused the death of a passenger while operating a vehicle under the influence. Just after midnight on Nov. 1, Montana Highway Patrol responded to a single-vehicle crash on Halfmoon Road, north of the Stolz Lumber and BNSF railway crossing.
Upon arrival, troopers found Eaton and his deceased passenger outside the vehicle. The investigation revealed that Eaton was driving northbound when he failed to navigate a right-hand turn, causing the vehicle to veer off the road, descend an embankment, and strike several trees.
Evidence indicated that the passenger was partially ejected during the crash. Both men had reportedly consumed alcohol at the Blue Moon Bar shortly before the incident. Eaton was subsequently transported to Logan Health for medical treatment.
A blood test determined Eaton's blood alcohol level was 0.173, more than double the legal limit, and he also had THC in his system. The investigation is ongoing.