CARRINGTON, N.D. (KFGO) – The judge overseeing the case of a Glenfield man in the September traffic death of an 18-year-old man in McHenry, North Dakota has approved a change in one of the charges against him.
Southeast Judicial District Judge Bradley Cruff, chambered in Wahpeton, will allow a manslaughter charge to move ahead against 42-year-old Shannon Brandt. That replaces a murder charge. The request came from the Foster County State’s Attorney.
Cayler Ellingson died when he was hit by a car driven by Brandt after a street dance. Initially, a state trooper reported that the death may have been politically motivated. That claim was later discredited. Brandt’s attorney, Mark Friese of Fargo, said there’s no evidence to support what he calls the misplaced allegation of intentional homicide. He said the death was a tragedy and media hype and community conjecture is no substitute for evidence.
Brandt also faces a charge of failing to stop or assist at the scene. His trial is scheduled to begin May 30.
