The University of Denver sophomore basketball player Coban Porter was involved in an incident that occurred in the early hours of Sunday, Jan. 22.
Here’s what we know:
- On Jan. 22, 2023, Porter was driving at an estimated speed of 50 mph when he ran a red light at the intersection of South University Boulevard and Buchtel Boulevard South, hitting and killing 42-year-old Kathy Rothman.
- Porter was taken into custody at the scene after the fatal crash.
- He was charged with vehicular homicide while driving under the influence, vehicular homicide for reckless driving, vehicular assault while driving under the influence and vehicular assault for reckless driving, according to the announcement made on Wednesday.
- Porter’s brother, Denver Nuggets basketball player Michael Porter Jr., bailed him out of jail on Sunday night, missing his NBA game due to “personal reasons.”
- Reports from the scene indicated that Porter was intoxicated, detailing that his speech was slurred, he smelled of alcohol and he was wearing a Bud Light paper wristband.
- Kathy Rothman, who was driving for Uber, leaves behind a 4-year-old son.
- Rothman’s passenger was a 47-year-old man. He was injured but survived the accident.
- Porter was out of the basketball season due to an ACL injury. His name is no longer featured on the official DU men’s basketball roster. So far, there has been no word from the athletics department regarding Porter’s future.
- Porter spoke few words to the judge during his court appearance on Monday morning. His attorney declined to comment. Members of Rothman’s family were in attendance, becoming emotional during the arraignment.
- Porter’s next court appearance is set for April 11.
Drunk driving is a serious issue on many college campuses and is something everyone should keep in mind as they choose to go out and drink. Find a designated driver before you start drinking. If plans fall through and you need a ride home, there are plenty of campus resources that can assist you.
The University of Denver released a press statement, stating, “This is a tragic and heartbreaking situation, and our deepest sympathies are with those involved in the accident, their families, and friends. All the resources of our campus and broader community, including counseling services, are available to any DU community member in need of assistance 24/7.” To respect the privacy of those involved, DU has not made any further statements.