NORTH BRANFORD, Conn. — A suspect charged in a fatal hit-and-run North Branford crash has been extradited back to Connecticut, officials said.
The crash happened just after 7 a.m. on March 28, killing North Branford resident David Horbal. Police received a report that a man was injured in the area of Foxon Road near Shaw Road. When first responders got to the scene, Horbal was pronounced dead.
Officials said Horbal was struck by a vehicle, but the vehicle drove off before police could get there. Investigators later identified 40-year-old James Black as the suspect.
Two weeks later, on April 10, North Branford investigators were notified by the Highland County Sheriff's Office in Florida that Black was in their custody on the outstanding warrant for his arrest, and as he was a fugitive from justice.
Now, Black has been extradited to Connecticut as of Tuesday, and he's been charged with first-degree manslaughter, evading responsibility resulting in death, and tempering with evidence.
North Branford officials thanked the support and assistance regarding the investigation, thanking in part the East Haven, Branford, Medication, Guilford, and New Haven police departments, the New Haven State's Attorney's office, Connecticut State Police, and the Tampa International Airport Police.
“I am especially thankful and in awe of the efforts and determination of the officers of North Branford Police Department, especially Officer Louis Pane who is the lead investigator in this case. Their professionalism, empathy, work ethic and commitment to bring James Black into custody for this horrific crime, highlights their professionalism and devotion to the residents of North Branford and the Connecticut Law Enforcement community," North Branford Police Chief James Lovelace said at the time of Black's arrest.
Black was held on a $400,000 bond and is set to appear in court on Wednesday.
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Jennifer Glatz is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. She can be reached at jglatz@fox61.com.
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