Pa. man pleads guilty to crash that killed girl

PITTSBURGH (AP) — A man has pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle in a crash that killed a 12-year-old girl in western Pennsylvania.

Matthew Frank, 20, of Ambler, also pleaded guilty today to aggravated assault while driving under the influence. His sentencing is March 7.

Frank lost control of his car while driving in Jefferson Hills in 2008 and collided with another car, killing Tia Wright. Her father was driving and suffered severe injuries; her best friend was also injured.

Authorities say Frank was speeding and had alcohol and marijuana in his system at the time.

Frank’s lawyer said his client also had an undiagnosed malignant brain tumor that he believes contributed to the crash. Frank is currently receiving chemotherapy.