Louisville man sentenced to prison in hit-and-run death

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — A man who authorities say was high on heroin and driving when he struck and killed a child in Louisville has been sentenced to 18 years in prison.

A release from the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney says 25-year-old Edward Pearce had just used heroin when he crossed a curb and sidewalk in April 2014 and struck five-year-old Benjamin Clem. Pearce fled and was arrested at his home. Police found a syringe full of heroin in his pocket.

Pearce pleaded guilty on Wednesday to manslaughter, wanton endangerment, driving under the influence and drug charges. He was sentenced to prison immediately after.

The boy was riding his scooter in southwest Louisville when he was hit. His father and younger sister were also almost hit by Pearce’s car.

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