GOLDEN, Colo. (Jun. 27, 2023) – Haley Mill was sentenced to 20 years in prison by the First Judicial District Court yesterday for the crash that seriously injured two cyclists last summer.
On Jun. 19, 2022, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies were dispatched to Rainbow Hill Road and Ruby Ranch Road on a report that a driver had struck two cyclists and fled. The two cyclists were part of a cycling club and taking part in a group ride. They rode single file along the shoulder, essentially on the solid white line.
Avid cyclist Lisa Ludwig was struck and suffered a traumatic brain injury, three broken ribs, a broken shoulder blade, and two broken vertebrae. Fellow cyclist Mike Will was also hit and suffered a broken rib and a punctured lung.
Reports initially suggested that Mill intentionally drove towards the cyclists. However, after an extensive investigation, there was no evidence to support this claim. Instead, prosecutors believe the crash was a result of Mill’s drug use.
On May 22, 2023, Mill pled guilty to Vehicular Assault – Section 18-3-205(1)(a), C.R.S. (F5) and Assault in the First Degree – Extreme Indifference – Section 18-3-202(1)(c), C.R.S. (F3). As a result of Mill’s guilty plea, the parties stipulated to a sentencing range of 10-20 years in the Department of Corrections.
On Jun. 26, 2023, Chief Deputy District Attorney Tyra Forbes requested the maximum of 20 years in prison, noting the defendant’s extensive criminal record, her lack of regard for the community’s life and safety, and her leaving the scene and evading law enforcement for days.
“At the end of the day, Lisa and Mike’s life will never be the same, the cyclists who were with them that day will never be the same, and no matter what the sentence is, they will always have a huge hole in their heart because of the actions of the defendant,” said Forbes. “Despite her lifelong injuries, Lisa has shown remarkable strength and resilience in rising above this tragedy and continues to inspire us all.”
A number of friends and family of the victims addressed the court to discuss the effect this case has had on the Ludwig family and the cyclist community at large. Mill also addressed the court and apologized to the victims, stating that she is “haunted” by the life-long consequences of her actions every day.