DES MOINES, Iowa — The driver in a high-speed crash that killed a Des Moines couple in November 2023 has been sentenced following a guilty plea in December 2024.

In November 2023, the Des Moines Police Department responded to East 27th Street and East University Avenue on reports of a crash involving two vehicles. The passengers in one of the vehicles, Fred Lehman, 76, and Mary Lehman, 79, died at the scene.

Kameron Wright, at the time 18-year-old, was arrested and charged later that month. He was charged with two counts of vehicular homicide – OWI and two counts of vehicular homicide – reckless driving.

After pleading guilty to only two counts of vehicular homicide – reckless driving and one count of operating while intoxicated in December 2024, Wright was sentenced on Thursday.

19-year-old Kameron Wright has been sentenced to up 20 years in prison and will pay $300,000 in restitution. Wright may also have to participate in a Victim-Offender Dialogue program if the family chooses.

According to the Polk County Court, during the sentencing Wright expressed remorse and took full responsibility for the deaths.

“My selfishness killed them, I was careless,” Wright said. “… I acted on pure immaturity. I deeply, deeply apologize for causing so much grief and so much pain.”

The Lehman family urges Wright to use this tragedy to improve himself.

“I hope you choose to be a better man. My parents would have wanted that.” said Michelle Vry, the couple’s daughter. “They believed in grace and second chances but also believed in accountability.”  

Polk County District Judge Paul Scott gave Wright consecutive prison sentences, citing the two lives lost and seriousness of the offense.