Driver pleads guilty in death

Staff report

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A man accused in a November 2009 traffic accident that killed a Beloit Elementary School teacher and injured her young son has pleaded guilty to aggravated vehicular homicide.

According to 21 WFMJ-TV, The Vindicator’s broadcast partner, Rikki Wheatley entered the plea Thursday in Columbiana County Common Pleas Court.

Wheatley’s truck went left of center on Rochester Road in November 2009 and killed Jennifer Baker, 33. Baker’s son, Jacob, now 8, was paralyzed in the accident.

Wheatley also pleaded guilty to vehicular assault.

He likely will be sentenced to 21/2 years in prison and lose his driver’s license for eight years, WFMJ reported.