Suspect in fatal Federal Way DUI appears in court

A man charged in a crash that killed a star high school athlete in Federal Way pleaded not guilty in court today. Roberto Emery is charged with vehicular homicide, driving under the influence and disregard for the safety of others. Back on October 23rd, Emery is accused of hitting another car that was speeding, sending that car onto the sidewalk, hitting and killing 16-year-old DJ Tuiasa Sopo. DJ had just played a football game at Federal Way High School. Investigators say a breath test showed Emery had a blood alcohol. Alcohol content of more than twice the legal limit. Today, the defense asked the judge to release Emory on personal recognizance. DJ's mother spoke at the hearing, urging the judge to deny that request. My son does not get another chance at life. Our family has been given a lifetime sentence of grief. I am asking for accountability, justice, and for my son's life to be treated with the seriousness and dignity it deserves. He was a light to many lives. The judge maintained Emery's bail at $200,000. The other driver involved in this crash is Luis Santos. Investigators say Santos was going more than 90 miles per hour and changed into a carpool lane without signaling right before the crash. Santos is also charged with vehicular homicide, being held on a $200,000 bail, and is due back in court on November 9th.