Maryland teen charged with manslaughter for deadly stolen car crash in Howard County

A Maryland teen is facing auto manslaughter charges after stealing a car and causing a deadly four-vehicle crash in Howard County, according to police. On Friday, May 10, a stolen Hyundai was driving east on Guilford Avenue in Jessup when it crossed the double yellow lines and sideswiped two cars, Howard County Police said. Video obtained by WJZ shows the Hyundai attempting to speed past a Tesla as it prepared to make a left turn onto Twelve Sons Court.The stolen car crashed head-on with a Honda Civic, killing the driver, 69-year-old Bonnie Fuller Griffith.After the crash, four teens hopped out of the Hyundai and fled the scene. A 16-year-old boy from Laurel was injured in the collision and taken to a hospital. He is now charged with auto manslaughter and unlawful taking of a motor vehicle. The teen was released from the hospital and is now in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Services, police said. Family and friends cope with devastating lossGriffith was taken to the hospital after the crash, but was pronounced dead. As friends and family of Griffith mourn her loss, police continue to search for the three teens who fled the scene. Griffith was originally from Miami, but was living in Columbia, Maryland. She is remembered as a dedicated dance mom and arts patron, with an "infectious smile, a giving spirit, and a zeal for life."Car thefts and youth crime in Howard CountyDespite a 25% drop in vehicle thefts, Howard County has seen a spike in juvenile crime.  In April, County Executive Calvin Ball announced a new council on youth engagement and violence prevention to address an "urgent need" for preventing youth violence.Recent incidents include a February shooting near the Mall in Columbia that left 16-year-old Michael Roberston dead, and a 15-year-old boy injured, and a separate shooting at the same mall that happened last July, and left 17-year-old Angelo Little dead.