Warren woman sentenced to four years in prison in fatal Bazetta OVI crash
A Warren woman was sentenced on Wednesday, March 18, in a case stemming from November 2024 involving a fatal OVI crash in Bazetta Township.
Pictured above, Britni Ulam, 36, was sentenced to four years in prison. Additionally, her license will be suspended and she must participate in a driver's intervention program.
In November of last year, Ulam pleaded guilty to one charge of aggravated vehicular homicide (F5) and a misdemeanor charge of OVI.
Charges stem from a crash in 2024 that killed 31-year-old Frank Walter.
According to Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) troopers, Ulam failed to navigate a curve in the road, veering off the road and struck a ditch and culvert before rolling several times.
Ulam and Walter were both thrown from the car.
The vehicle's condition following the crash can be seen below.
Troopers also say that Ulam's blood alcohol level was .339, which is over four times the legal limit.
The family of Frank Walter offered forgiveness to the woman responsible for his death as she faced a judge in Trumbull County Court.
“I want to see you have a future and my brother not pass away for nothing,” Eric Walter, Frank’s brother said.
“The mom in me feels one way, for Frank I feel another,” Lisa Keenan, Frank’s mother said. “Britni I hope everything goes well for you dear.”
Walters mother, sister and brother all asked the judge to let Ulam go on probation.
“I think more than anything she needs help with the addiction stuff and just like accountability to make sure something like this doesn't happen again,” Marina Walter, Frank’s sister said.
His brother Eric told the judge about his personal history with addiction and felt Ulam should be let off to get substance use help.
“What ended up helping me was engaging in programming afterwards and finding something to keep me busy and something to really live for,” Eric said.
Judge Cynthia Westcott noted Ulam was remorseful and is not likely to reoffend but said her history of several traffic violations are enough of a reason for time behind bars.
Warren Municipal court records show Ulam was issued three traffic citations as far back as 2008 for speeding and not wearing a seat belt. She was also cited for underage drinking in 2007.
Related Coverage
