Man Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter in Drunk Driving Crash that Killed UK Student

Joseph Siami faces up to 20 years in prison for 2021 incident that killed Chase Lawson

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Joseph Siami, 32, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the second degree for a 2021 drunk driving crash that killed 20-year-old University of Kentucky student Chase Lawson. Siami was originally charged with murder but reached a plea deal with prosecutors, who are recommending a 20-year prison sentence for Siami.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of drunk driving crashes, which continue to be a major public safety issue. Lawson's death has deeply affected his family and the broader community, underscoring the urgent need for stronger enforcement and education around impaired driving.

The details

In November 2021, Siami was driving under the influence and speeding when he crashed into the car carrying Lawson and two others. While the other passengers survived, Lawson later died at the hospital. Siami confirmed he had consumed multiple alcoholic beverages that night. He was originally charged with murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the second degree as part of a plea deal.

  • In November 2021, Siami crashed into the car carrying Lawson and two others.
  • On Monday, Siami pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the second degree.
  • Siami's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May.

The players

Joseph Siami

A 32-year-old man who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the second degree for a 2021 drunk driving crash that killed University of Kentucky student Chase Lawson.

Chase Lawson

A 20-year-old University of Kentucky student who was killed in the 2021 drunk driving crash.

Sabrina Hill

A regional manager for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) who was in the courtroom in support of Lawson's family.

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What they’re saying

“The impact that this has had on the family and their loved ones has been everlasting and devastating. We're here today to just be a support to the family and hoping that the sentence imposed on the defendant is a reflection of the pain that has been inflicted on this family for so many years.”

— Sabrina Hill, MADD regional manager for Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio (wlky.com)

“The moment you decide to get in a vehicle after you've been drinking or using drugs, you then turn that vehicle into a weapon.”

— Sabrina Hill, MADD regional manager for Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio (wlky.com)

What’s next

Siami's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May, where he could face up to 20 years in prison.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating consequences of drunk driving and the urgent need for stronger measures to prevent impaired driving and hold offenders accountable. Lawson's death has deeply impacted his family and community, highlighting the far-reaching impact of these preventable crashes.