The case of Jaylon Jamall Benjamin, the driver in the October 2023 vehicle accident that killed James and Lisa Johnson, has been decided by a Multnomah County jury. Benjamin was convicted on all charges, including two counts of second-degree manslaughter, second-degree animal mistreatment, second-degree criminal mischief, and careless driving, according to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.
On October 28, 2023, Benjamin, operating a U-Haul pickup truck, struck the Johnsons’ SUV on NE Lombard, resulting in the terrible event. According to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, witnesses determined that he was traveling at a significantly higher speed than the posted 45 mph limit. When airbag control module data showed that Benjamin was actually traveling at 100 mph only seconds prior to the collision and only managed to slow to 80 mph upon contact figures—a sharp contrast to his allegation that he was traveling at 55 mph—the case took a dramatic turn.
Deputy District Attorneys Chris Shull and Abbie Tornquist argued the state’s case against Benjamin at a trial that lasted from November 18 to November 21. On November 21, the 12-member jury rendered a guilty judgment, ending the deliberations. According to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, Benjamin will stay in detention until the December 19 sentencing date.
The Portland Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team lead investigator, Chase Fullington, and victim advocates Rebecca Leediker and Lyssa Simmons were recognized by the District Attorney’s office for their efforts in closing this significant case.
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