Wrong-way driver to trial for murder

A man who lived in Seattle until two months ago was arraigned Wednesday for driving the wrong-way on the East Beltline and killing a first-grade teacher.

Leonel Franco-Avina, 38, was charged with second-degree murder and operating while intoxicated causing the death of Aaron Haynes on Monday morning. It's alleged that Franco-Avina was driving south in the northbound lanes of the East Beltline near Five Mile Road, and hit Haynes head-on around 7 a.m.

Franco-Avina's arraignment took place in his hospital room. A Spanish interpreter was present at the arraignment. On Dec. 8, 2009, he waived his preliminary exam on the charges, meaning his case will now go to trial.

His blood alcohol level at the time of the crash, obtained by a search warrant, was .425%, more than five times the legal limit of .08 in Michigan.

Franco-Avina moved from Seattle in September and has been staying with family in Wyoming. However, he remains hospitalized, and his bond was set at $500,000.

Haynes died at the scene.

Franco-Avina was ordered to not have any contact with Haynes' family, he cannot have any alcohol, he cannot drive and he cannot leave the state.

His next court appearance will be Dec. 8.