A Durango man who hit a pedestrian in the parking lot of south City Market this summer was given a deferred judgment, according to court records.
Robert Morris, 87, was cited with careless driving causing injury after authorities say he struck a pedestrian in August, causing the victim to be taken by helicopter to St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood with serious injuries.
Morris was reportedly shopping at City Market at 6 Town Plaza on Aug. 3, and after he was done, he got into his 2010 Subaru Forester around 9:40 a.m.
Morris told authorities he mistook the gas pedal for the brake, pressed down and accelerated out of the parking spot at a high rate of speed. He hit a pedestrian, identified as Michael McGuffey, and three other vehicles before coming to a stop.
Police said at the time drugs and alcohol were not suspected factors in the crash.
Morris last week was given a deferred judgment for one year, which means if he does not violate the law during that time, the citation will be cleared from his record.
Morris must also pay restitution, which had not been set as of Monday morning, as well as court costs and fines. He is not required to take any evaluations, courses or treatments, or conduct any public service, according to a sentencing order.
Attempts to reach McGuffey, 73, were not immediately successful Monday morning.
jromeo@durangoherald.com
