A Colorado woman who attempted to shift blame for a fatal crash onto a nonexistent 'Mexican lady' has received the maximum prison sentence permitted by law. Kalynn Settle, 30, was sentenced on Thursday to six years behind bars for vehicular homicide in connection with the death of motorcyclist Aaron Barone, 41, on June 14, 2025. She also received a concurrent one-year term for possession of a controlled substance, according to The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
Details of the Crash
Prosecutors stated that Settle was driving an SUV southbound on North Seventh Street in Grand Junction when she crossed into northbound lanes and struck Barone's motorcycle at the intersection with Bunting Avenue. Witnesses reported that she entered oncoming traffic 'for an unknown reason' before hitting Barone, who died from his injuries weeks later, as noted in an affidavit cited by KREX.
False Claims at the Scene
Body camera footage captured Settle telling officers she had stopped to help Barone because she was a registered nurse. She claimed she hit a car in front of her driven by a 'Mexican lady that left,' who she said struck the motorcycle. However, an officer pointed out that Settle's vehicle had 'blood or human flesh' on the front. Police also noted her slurred speech and bloodshot, watery eyes.
Evidence of Impairment
A search of Settle's car revealed alcohol, prescription medication, and a glass pipe with burnt residue. Tests on a white powder found in the vehicle were positive for ketamine, while a crystal-like substance tested positive for cocaine. Settle refused sobriety tests, and a blood test confirmed the presence of alcohol and cocaine, though not ketamine. When informed she was under arrest for DUI, she replied, 'Good luck with that.'
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Settle pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide while driving while ability impaired and possession of cocaine. In court, she tearfully apologized to Barone's family, stating she thinks about him every day and cannot justify her reckless decision. Her defense attorney, Vince Felletter, argued that she accepted responsibility and had no prior criminal record, noting her struggles with alcohol and cocaine. Her mother, Heather Settle, expressed love but did not excuse her actions, highlighting her daughter's long-term addiction.
Prosecutor's Argument
Prosecutor Joshua Dougherty argued that Settle portrayed herself as a hero and was more concerned about her career than the victim. He noted she missed multiple drug tests before sentencing, indicating a lack of seriousness. Barone's father, Michael, testified that the crash devastated his family, saying he would never forget hearing his son's last heartbeats.
Judge's Decision
Judge JenniLynne Lawrence initially considered community supervision but changed her mind after learning Settle missed drug tests, calling it manipulative behavior common among addicts avoiding consequences. She cited concerns for public safety and noted Settle's behavior at the scene was not that of a sober person. Lawrence concluded that while no sentence could bring Barone back, it could hold Settle accountable. She noted Settle could reduce her time with good behavior in prison.
