Police Arrest Ottawa Woman on Charges Stemming from Fatal Crash

An Ottawa woman who was behind the wheel during a crash that led to her passenger’s death is now facing serious charges.

Samantha Orozco was arrested Tuesday by Ottawa police on charges dating back to an accident which took place on March 23. The 30-year old Orozco was riding with 31-year old Shalane Stevens along Champlain Street when they were allegedly hit by 31-year old Sara Halm. According to police, Halm had failed to yield at the intersection leading to the crash.

Stevens would be taken to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center where she later died. Tuesday, Orozco was charged with four counts of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence.

She was taken to the LaSalle County Jail where her bond was set at $500,000.