The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher M. Thomas, of Bushkill, was sentenced on July 22 to 57 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Karoline Mehlachick for homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence.

According to U.S. Attorney Brian D. Miller, in June 2024, Thomas was driving his vehicle through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area while high on methamphetamine. Multiple cars and two motorcycles had come to a stop more than 400 feet in front of Thomas to let deer cross the road. Thomas did not stop but continued to travel at a high rate of speed.

Thomas crashed full speed into one of the motorcyclists, who was pronounced dead at the scene. A subsequent blood draw from Thomas and forensic analysis revealed he had significant levels of amphetamine and methamphetamine in his blood.

In imposing the sentence, the judge noted the serious and deadly nature of the offense; the need to provide just punishment; and the need to deter Thomas and others from committing similar offenses.