Trial Begins In Pedestrian Death Of Washington Tourist

A trial has begun for a Missoula man accused of killing a tourist from Washington with his car while under the influence.

Brian Holm has pleaded not guilty to negligent vehicular homicide while under the influence for the Nov. 9 death of 24-year-old Brian Beaver of Aberdeen, Wash.

Court documents say the 51-year-old Holm was taking a narcotic pain reliever and an antidepressant and had a cup of alcohol in the car. Prosecutors say Holm struck Beaver as the tourist and two friends walked along a Missoula sidewalk.

One friend, Chris Evans, testified Wednesday that they never heard the car coming.

Public Defender Scott Spencer says that Holm was trying to avoid a head-on collision with another car, but the defendant can't recall the details.

Associated Press