Traffic ticket dismissed as probe into fatal crash continues

Prosecutors have dismissed the traffic ticket issued to a Morris woman suspected of causing a May 2 crash that killed a motorcyclist, while they investigate filing more serious charges at a later date.

Lake County State's Attorney Michael Waller said Friday he elected to dismiss the ticket for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident given to Lora L. Hunt, 48, to avoid potential double-jeopardy issues.

Police said Hunt was polishing her fingernails as she drove and struck a motorcycle stopped for a traffic signal at Rand and Old McHenry roads near Lake Zurich.

The driver of the motorcycle, Anita Zaffke, 56, of Lake Zurich, was killed by the impact.

The tragedy has touched off an angry and emotional outcry, particularly among motorcycle enthusiasts, about the danger caused by distracted drivers.

Waller said an accident reconstruction specialist is preparing a report on the crash, and investigators from his office are re-interviewing witnesses.

He said it was necessary to dismiss the traffic ticket before Hunt's first scheduled court appearance, which was set for Monday, June 8, to avoid potential double-jeopardy issues.

"Had she chosen to plead guilty to the traffic ticket, it could have prevented us from filing more serious charges if the investigation indicates they are warranted," Waller said. "If more serious charges are not warranted, the traffic charge can be reinstated."

Lake County Sheriff's police have already said drug or alcohol use on Hunt's part is not an issue in the case, and Lake County Coroner Dr. Richard Keller said Hunt's toxicology tests were negative.

Waller said he could not predict when the investigation would be complete, but added he expects the results within a few weeks.