Norfolk, Va. (WTKR) - The man who Norfolk Police say hit and killed a 29-year-old woman riding a scooter home from work in June of 2014 has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.
Tamika Gastinell was hit by a vehicle at Kempsville Road and Lowery Road on June 22, 2014. She was taken to the hospital with serious injuries where she later died.
Norfolk Police originally charged 62-year-old Irvin Crutchlow with DUI-Prescription Drugs but later charged him with Felony Hit and Run and 2nd Degree Murder.
After his arrest, Crutchlow spoke to NewsChannel 3 from jail and denied hitting Gastinell. During the interview, his responses were often long and rambling, at times he was yawning, other times his eyes were closed while talking.
During a hearing in early June of 2015, a prosecutor updated the judge on the case, including a brief synopsis of two mental evaluations that have been performed on Crutchlow.
He told the court that both show a combination of dementia and brain damage that mean Crutchlow is not sufficiently aware to be criminally responsible.
Gastinell's mother, Sylvia Fields, was there when Crutchlow entered his plea. She says that while she's glad she has some closure, she's disappointed that Crutchlow continues to deny responsibility.
“No responsibility at all. You just killed somebody and you're getting a slap on the wrist, that's it. She's not here to enjoy her life, enjoy her family, have kids of her own or nothing like that now," she told NewsChannel 3's Todd Corillo.
Crutchlow is currently being transferred to a state mental facility. He will return to court in 45 days for a determination if he will remain there.
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