Driver pleads guilty in crash that killed friend

TOMS RIVER, N.J. (AP) -- A teenager who was critically injured in a crash earlier this year that killed his friend has pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and driving under the influence.

The Asbury Park Press reports that Ocean County prosecutors say 18-year-old Connor Hanifin, of Toms River pleaded guilty Thursdayday. He is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 23 and prosecutors are seeking 42 months in state prison.

The charge stems from a Feb. 8 crash in Toms River that caused the death of 19-year-old Toms River resident Francis Duddy. The two played football together at Monsignor Donovan High School, where Duddy's father is head coach.

Prosecutors say it appears that Hanifin was speeding when he lost control of his car and struck a tree. They also say alcoholic beverage containers were found in the vehicle, and testing showed Hanifin's blood-alcohol level exceeded the legal limit.

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