Teen accused of killing toddler in crash pleads not guilty

COVINGTON, Wash. – The 19-year-old accused of causing a crash that killed a toddler and seriously injured a mother appeared in court Wednesday.

The family of the victim, 21-month-old Altyn, is seeking justice. The toddler’s aunt asked Judge Johanna Bender to allow the media to show the accused driver’s face.

“I think it’s important to pay attention to the fact that a baby was killed because he made some very, very bad decisions,” Andrea Al-Sudani told the judge.

The suspect, Alexis Andaluz-Lozano, appeared in court with several family members. He pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and vehicular assault.

According to prosecutors, Andaluz-Lozano was driving too fast in the rain on State Route 18, swerving into the oncoming lane and crashing into another vehicle. Police said he appeared to show signs of possible impairment after the crash and that there were marijuana products in his car.

“The faces of most people who murder babies, whether intentionally or not, or anyone else who murders someone, are shown, usually on the day it happens. He was released just days after the murder and I think that is the case.” “It’s really important that he be treated like anyone else who murders someone or commits murder intentionally or unintentionally,” Al-Sudani said .

Altyn’s mother suffered several broken bones in the accident and her son died at the scene.

Despite the family’s wishes, Judge Bender decided not to show Andaluz-Lozano’s face.

“The court has the power to restrict such contact or filming only if this is necessary to protect a party’s essential procedural rights. I am convinced today that there is a real security risk here and that it is necessary to restrict press access.” “We must hold today’s hearing to ensure the safety of Mr. Lozano and his family and therefore his ability to to participate fully in the proceedings later,” said Judge Bender.

Andaluz-Lozano posted a $150,000 bond two days after his arrest. He is currently required to undergo electronic home monitoring.

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