By Daily Mail (U.S.) | Created at 2024-12-27 20:26:22 | Updated at 2024-12-28 11:25:14
15 hours ago
A woman has been charged with killing a musician after she allegedly ran a red light after a boozy hotel function.
Susan Gayle Elman, 65, plowed a 2006 Hummer H3 into the side of a Mustang driven by Charlie Gilbert, 41, in West Palm Beach, Florida, on April 2.
Police alleged dashcam footage from another car showed her run a red light turning onto South Australian Avenue, near Palm Beach International Airport.
Gilbert had the green light and was driving through the intersection about 11pm when Elman smashed into him, and he died at the scene.
Elman was finally charged with driving under the influence causing injury and reckless driving causing serious injury on Thursday after a long investigation.
Charging affidavits alleged Elman told police she only had two drinks that night - a gin and soda at an event at the Hilton Hotel, and another at dinner afterwards.
Charlie Gilbert, 41, was killed when a Hummer H3 plowed into the side of his Mustang
Susan Gayle Elman, 65, was driving the Hummer and allegedly ran a red light while intoxicated
She also claimed to have a green light when she made her turn, contrary to the dashcam footage.
However, two police officers reported she showed signs of intoxication including bloodshot eyes and an odor of alcohol.
A blood sample was not taken until hours later and testing showed a blood alcohol level below the legal 0.08, but had trace amounts of THC.
Police decided that, given the available evidence, they had enough to charge Elman and she was put behind bars.
Elman grew up in nearby Fort Lauderdale, where her siblings still live, but later moved to Bainbridge Island - a wealthy enclave across the bay from Seattle.
There she runs Artizan Paintworks with her husband Martin Morin.
Gilbert, who had a real estate license and recorded rap songs under the name CharlieBlyck, was buried by his family on April 20.
'Charlie was a free spirit who enjoyed writing and recording music. Additionally, he also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends,' his obituary read.
'His big, beautiful smile and joyful spirit will forever be missed.'
Gilbert (pictured with his sister Shannon Danford) died at the scene
