Witnesses testify at Gibson vehicular manslaughter preliminary hearing

The preliminary hearing for the vehicular manslaughter trail of Dillon Gibson got underway Thursday morning in Blackfoot. Gibson is accused of crashing his car into the home of William K. Hong. Hong died after his home caught fire from the accident.

During the preliminary hearing Judge James H. Barrett allowed the release of Gibson on bond during the trial. A property bond was set for $190,000 with $50,000 paid in cash. The judge also stipulated a condition that Gibson would be required to undergo alcohol testing. Judge Barrett also said Gibson was not allowed to possess drugs or alcohol and he is not to leave the state.

During Thursday’s hearing the prosecution called multiple witnesses for the case. All witnesses identified Gibson and stated they saw him running from the site of the crash. One witness also described how he attempted to rescue William Hong from the home as the fire burned.

Gibson’s ex-girlfriend, Patricia Hatch recalled him becoming intoxicated on the day of the accident and abusing drugs in front of his 3-year-old daughter.

If convicted Gibson could face up to 20 years and 6 months in prison and a fine of $56,000.

The hearing is still underway and more information will be added as it becomes available.