Driver gets probation in fatal crash

A woman accused of speeding on a East County highway and causing a collision that killed a federal firefighter was placed Friday on probation and ordered to serve a day in jail on the anniversary of the victim’s death.

Natasia Ray Wood pleaded guilty in late July to gross vehicular manslaughter in connection with the death of Darin Steffey, 37.

Steffey, who worked for the U.S. Forest Service, was on his way home the evening of Oct. 3 when his motorcycle was struck.

El Cajon Superior Court Judge Laura Halgren placed Wood on probation for a term of three years and gave her credit for the 17 days she had already spent in custody. In a move that was apparently symbolic, the judge told Wood she would have to spend another 24 hours at the Las Colinas jail on the anniversary of the offense.

Halgren also ordered the defendant to complete 30 days of public work service and complete an unspecified amount of community service, by speaking to others about the dangers of speeding. The judge also ordered Wood to pay restitution to the victim’s mother for burial expenses.

According to testimony at a previous hearing, Wood lost control of the SUV she was driving on Buckman Springs Road near Oak Drive and crossed into oncoming traffic.

A California Highway Patrol officer who contacted Wood at the crash site said she told him she was driving 77 mph just before the crash. The officer testified that Wood told him she felt the vehicle’s wheels hit the dirt on the side of the road and she briefly closed her eyes. When she opened them, she saw Steffey’s motorcycle approaching in the opposite lane.

The victim died at the scene.

Wood stopped after the crash and urged another motorist to call 911. No alcohol or drugs were involved.

Deputy District Attorney Kerry Conway said she argued in court documents that Wood should serve a year in county jail. She said Steffey’s girlfriend asked for the maximum term of six years.