LANCASTER, PA — Derek Sensenig, a 31-year-old Akron resident, was sentenced to 8 to 20 years in prison on Wednesday for causing a fatal crash in September 2022 while driving under the influence on Oregon Pike. The crash resulted in the death of 65-year-old Jeffrey Myers.
Lancaster County President Judge David Ashworth handed down the sentence after Sensenig pleaded guilty on August 29, 2023, to homicide by vehicle while DUI, homicide by vehicle, three counts of DUI, and leaving his traffic lane. At the time of the crash, Sensenig’s blood alcohol content was 0.187%, more than double the legal limit, and he was under the influence of clonazepam.
While driving a Lincoln SUV northbound in the 3900 block of Oregon Pike, Sensenig veered into the opposing lane, resulting in a head-on collision with Myers’ Toyota Camry. Statements from the victim’s sister, wife, and brother-in-law were read during the proceedings, with all family members offering forgiveness to Sensenig.
First Assistant District Attorney Todd Brown, who prosecuted the case, underscored the severity of the family’s loss and Sensenig’s prior DUI offenses, one of which occurred just a month before the fatal crash.
Sensenig had pleaded guilty and been sentenced for his second DUI charge on July 27, 2022. However, due to a Clerk of Courts error, Sensenig’s license had not yet been suspended at the time of the fatal crash.
Before delivering the sentence, Judge Ashworth addressed Sensenig, stating, “There’s a difference between those struggling with substance use disorder and those putting others in danger due to your substance use disorder. You chose to get behind the wheel of a weapon.”
Sensenig expressed remorse for his actions during the proceedings, and his defense counsel requested a sentence no greater than the mandatory minimum of 7 years. The charges were filed by West Earl Township Officer Jeremy Soreensen. As this case concludes, it serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of driving under the influence.
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