By: Shenice Sanders, NDG Intern
Following a fatal collision on Friday, former NBA player Daron “Mookie” Blaylock has been charged with second-degree vehicular homicide, driving on a suspended license and failure to maintain his lane, authorities announced on Monday.
The 46-year-old was driving an SUV that crossed the center line of Tara Boulevard, which is about 20 miles from downtown Atlanta, as he crossed the center line he struck a van police stated. Two passengers were in the van, 43 year-old Monica Murphy and her husband. Murphy died hours later in the hospital while her husband was treated and released.
Atlanta Medical Center spokeswoman Nicole Gustin said Blaylock was in fair condition Monday. He initially was on life support at the hospital, but his condition has improved over time.
In 1989, Blaylock a native of Garland, was a first-round draft pick by the New Jersey Nets right out of Oklahoma.
He had his best season in 1996-97, averaging 17.4 points and 5.9 assists Blaylock also played for the Golden State Warriors and the Atlanta Hawks from 1992-99.
Blaylock told investigators he blacked out just before crash, but was not able to say much more. The police are working to determine the cause of the crash but alcohol does not appear to be a factor according to early reports.
The investigation is still ongoing.
