Driver pleads guilty in student's death

LAFAYETTE, Ind (WLFI) - A Lafayette man faces up to 20 years in prison for his role in a two-vehicle crash that left a Harrison High School student dead.

30-year-old Joseph Welch pleaded guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated resulting in death.

16-year-old Katherine Ann Baker was killed when Welch ran a stoplight on US 52 and collided with her car in November, 2008.

Prosecutor Pat Harrington says the guilty plea represents a good resolution to the case.

But West Central Indiana Mothers Against Drunk Driving president Dan Towery says despite the plea nothing will lessen the pain felt by Baker's family.

"We're pleased with the fact that the defendant pled guilty to the lead charge. The lead charge is the most serious offense so in this case it is a good resolution of the case," said Harrington.

"There is no good resolution. Kate's gone. People have to be held accountable...so I think his plea agreement, pleaing guilty is appropriate. He was guilty, and we'll see what happens at the sentencing hearing," said Towery.

Welch's sentencing is set for March 5. Welch has a previous conviction in Iowa for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.