Trial set for former Logan woman charged in connection with fatal traffic accident

LOGAN — A two-day trial has been set for Eska M. Bird, a 42-year-old former Logan woman accused of automobile homicide in the death of her husband.

Bird appeared in 1st District Court Tuesday. She’s been charged with one count of manslaughter, a first-degree felony, eight counts of reckless endangerment, a class A misdemeanor, reckless driving, a class B misdemeanor and an infraction, for failing to have proof of insurance.

Defense attorney Shannon Demler told the court he had not been able to work out a resolution with prosecutors in the case, and asked for the trial. Judge Brian Cannell later scheduled it for June 15-16.

Police report on October 28, Bird was driving south on Main Street in Smithfield when her vehicle went into oncoming traffic near 850 South. She hit three other vehicles, one that broad-sided Bird’s vehicle on the passenger side, causing significant injuries to her husband, 52-year-old William Bird.

Five people, including William, were taken to hospitals. He later died on November 26 from his injuries. Eska Bird was not injured and allegedly tested positive for prescription medications.

In February, Bird was taken into custody by police in Pocatello, during a traffic stop, after a warrant was issued for her arrest. She was later extradited back to Cache County, where she was being held on $15,000 bail.

During Tuesday’s court appearance, Demler asked Judge Cannell to consider lowering Bird’s bail amount even more.

State attorney Barbara Lachmar opposed the request and said the court had already reduced the original bail amount from $30,000.

Judge Cannell said he would lower bail to $7,500. He ordered Bird to remain in the county if she bails out and prohibited her from using drugs or alcohol. He also reminded her that she is not allowed to operate a vehicle.

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