Justin Brill guilty of 2022 crashed that killed Ronald Rader

NEW PHILADELPHIA ‒ A 23-year-old Dennison man could spend 17 to 21 years in prison for killing Ronald Rader in a drunken driving crash and injuring another man.

Justin W. Brill pleaded guilty Tuesday to seven charges in connection with the June 14 fatal crash in front of the victim's apartment.

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Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Ernest told Brill that prison is mandatory. He ordered a background report on the defendant and scheduled sentencing for June 23.

Ernest accepted Brill's plea and found him guilty of two counts each of aggravated vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of an accident, and single counts of aggravated vehicular assault, vehicular assault, and operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

As part of a plea agreement, Assistant County Prosecutor Fred R. Scott recommended a sentence of 10 1/2 to 13 1/2 years. The judge is not bound by the recommendation. The plea was negotiated with defense attorney Richard D. Drake of Canton.

Brill drove into Beaver Creek Apartments, causing fatal injuries to Rader, 55, who was caught between the vehicle and the building at 1811 E. High Ave.

A second victim suffered broken ribs and other injuries, Assistant County Prosecutor Kristine Beard said during a hearing in New Philadelphia Municipal Court.

Rader was a familiar sight to many people, even those who did not know him personally. He often rode his light blue tricycle, equipped with a cargo basket, throughout the Dover and New Philadelphia areas.

Drake said Brill regretted killing Rader and leaving the crash scene. He said Brill, who has a daughter, understands that he took the victim away from his family forever.

Reach Nancy at 330-364-8402 or [email protected].

On Twitter: @nmolnarTR