Netflix's latest true crime series, The Crash, delves into the shocking case of Mackenzie Shirilla, who was sentenced to prison for the murders of her boyfriend and his friend. The documentary, streaming from May 15, examines the events of July 31, 2002, when Shirilla drove her car into a brick building at 100 miles per hour in Strongsville, Ohio, killing Dominic Russo, 20, and Davion Flanagan, 19. Shirilla survived the crash and was later found guilty of murder.
The Case and Trial
Prosecutors argued that Shirilla intentionally crashed the car to kill Russo, while she claimed to have no memory of the incident. In a 2023 trial, she was convicted on all counts, including two counts of murder. Judge Nancy Russo described Shirilla as "literal hell on wheels" during sentencing, noting that video evidence showed her purpose and intent.
Sentencing Details
Shirilla received two concurrent sentences of 15 years to life for each murder charge, along with credit for time served. Her driver's license was permanently suspended. Judge Russo stated that while she opted for concurrent sentences, there was a "very good likelihood" Shirilla would spend the rest of her life in prison. In a statement, Shirilla expressed remorse, saying she was "deeply sorry" and that she loved Dom and Davion.
Shirilla is currently incarcerated at the Ohio Reformatory for Women in Marysville, Ohio. The Crash is now streaming on Netflix.
