The man involved in the January 18th five-person fatal vehicle accident at US 41 and Country Meadow Road on the outskirts of Marinette, now faces homicide charges in connection with the crash. 39-year old Richard Allen Powell faces 21 felony charges including several charges of Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle stemming from the accident.
The crash claimed the lives of 44-year-old Joel Rivas and his four children, two of which were apparently pregnant. After an accident reconstruction from the Wisconsin State Patrol, it is believed Powell was traveling between 77-to-81 miles per hour in an area where the speed limit is reduced from 55-to-45.
Powell appeared in court Monday and was released on $10,000 signature bond. He is due back in court next month for his initial appearance with council.