Tragic Collision claims life of north east firefighter: Dawann Simmons faces serious charges

Erie County, NY – In a devastating incident that shook the community, North East firefighter Shawn Giles lost his life in August while performing his duties, struck by a car while directing traffic. The driver, Dawann M. Simmons, a 41-year-old Erie native, now faces severe charges, including vehicular homicide and driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Simmons was brought before District Judge Edward Wilson of the 2nd Ward of Erie during a lengthy two-hour hearing at the Erie County Courthouse.

During the preliminary hearing, Assistant District Attorney Steven Liboski revealed damning evidence. Simmons now faces multiple charges, including three counts of DUI related to drugs and alcohol, five counts of reckless endangerment, and homicide by vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, a second-degree felony. The most serious charge against Simmons is driving while intoxicated, carrying a minimum sentence of three years in state jail. Additionally, Simmons has been charged with third-degree felonies for both car-related homicide and accidents resulting in death or injury.

At the time of the collision, Simmons’s blood-alcohol level was recorded between 0.093% and 0.114%, surpassing the legal limit of 0.08%. The victim, Shawn Giles, a 53-year-old native of North East, Virginia, and a dedicated volunteer firefighter with the Fuller Hose Co., was directing traffic after a two-car collision at the intersection of North East’s Brickyard Road and Route 20. Tragically, Simmons, driving a 2007 Lexus at a high speed, struck Giles, sending him flying 15 to 20 feet. Giles, who was holding an orange and fluorescent green flag when he was hit, succumbed to his injuries.

Simmons was taken into custody shortly after the incident and is currently held on a $200,000 bond at the Erie County Jail in New York. The case has left the community in shock, mourning the loss of a hero while demanding justice for Shawn Giles and his grieving family.

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