Alleged drunk driver appears in Yuma Superior Court

News 11 went to Yuma Superior Court this morning where Christopher Peirce had a terms of release hearing.

The Court set bond at $150,000 cash only.

Peirce, 28, is facing a total of seven counts including second-degree murder and leaving the scene of an accident.

The victims’ eldest son spoke during the hearing. He asked that Peirce be punished to the maximum extent of the law. They also said Peirce is a threat to the community.

“This shouldn’t have happened in the first place,” said Chris Patch.

The State of Arizona said that there was a total of 7 911 calls in relation to Peirce’s driving on the night of the incident.

Peirce’s lawyer argues that Peirce has no prior felony convictions.

On May 15 Marie and John Patch were driving home when police said Peirce rear-ended them. Maria Patch, 66, died at the scene. John Patch was airlifted to a hospital in the Phoenix-area.

Chris Patch detailed in his testimony that his father is still suffering from injuries.