Dillon Gibson preliminary hearing

The man accused of driving his car into a Blackfoot man’s house had another court appearance today. The crash caused the house to catch fire — killing the homeowner.

Dillon Gibson’s preliminary hearing was scheduled two weeks ago, but it was moved to Thursday morning with the gathering of more evidence. Multiple witnesses were called to the stand to testify against Gibson on Thursday.

All of the witnesses identified Gibson as the man who crashed into William Hong’s home and ran away. Neighbors, responding officers, and Gibson’s ex-girlfriend all explained their versions of that night. Gibson’s ex-girlfriend recalled him becoming intoxicated throughout the day and abusing drugs in front of his 3-year-old daughter.

In addition, Gibson’s $240,000 bond was paid and accepted — he was released from jail Thursday evening under certain conditions for the rest of the trial. Prosecutor Cleve Colson said this is one of, if not the largest bond posted he has ever seen.

If convicted, Gibson could face up to 20 years and six months in prison, and a $56,000 fine.