Saratoga County, New York — Saratoga County District Attorney Brett Eby announced that on July 27, 2026, Morgan Lange (DOB: March 17, 1992) pleaded guilty to Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree, a Class D Felony (Penal Law § 125.12), and Tampering with Physical Evidence, a Class E Felony (Penal Law §215.40). Sentencing is expected to occur in December of 2026 before the Honorable Francine R. Vero, but no official date was set.
District Attorney Brett Eby declined to extend a negotiated plea offer in this matter, believing that the sentencing guidelines applicable to Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree do not adequately reflect the devastating loss of life, coupled with Lange’s conduct following the collision. That conduct included her failure to accept responsibility for her actions and her subsequent arrest on another felony offense while this case remained pending. Under New York law, Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree carries a maximum sentence of 2⅓ to 7 years’ imprisonment, while Tampering with Physical Evidence carries a maximum sentence of 1⅓ to 4 years’ imprisonment.
District Attorney Eby commended the extraordinary strength and perseverance demonstrated by the Soden family throughout this unimaginable ordeal. “Throughout this prosecution, I have heard from countless members of our community about what an exceptional person Joshua Soden was. The overwhelming message has been remarkably consistent that he was kind, hardworking, generous, and deeply loved. His loss has been felt far beyond his immediate family, and he will be forever missed.”
District Attorney Eby further praised the outstanding work of the New York State Police, whose thorough investigation resulted in today’s conviction. He specifically recognized Trooper Kianna Gutenmann and Trooper Matthew Zell for their immediate life-saving efforts and investigative work at the scene, as well as Investigator Brian Watts and Investigator Amanda Puckett for their continued investigation in the days that followed.
The District Attorney also commended Vehicular Crimes Bureau Chief Alexander Brennan, Assistant District Attorney Robert Conklin, Investigator Mark Sauter and Crime Victim Advocate Mollie Benware for their diligent prosecution of this case and their commitment to securing justice for Joshua Soden and his family.