Unlicensed driver charged with DUI in deadly Elkins Park crash last year

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — A Northeast Philadelphia man has been charged with a fatal DUI car crash in Elkins Park last November.

After toxicology test results and other information were revealed, the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office arrested 38-year-old Shaikan Pitts on Tuesday for the fatal DUI collision.

Prosecutors said Pitts was driving a car on Nov. 25, 2023, when he struck a van that was pulling out of a private driveway near Old York Road and Spring Avenue. Officials said the impact caused the van to spin and overturn, trapping 33-year-old Laishah “Nala” Holloman under it. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Eastern Montgomery Regional Crash Team discovered Pitts was driving nearly 70 mph in a 40-mph zone. Toxicology tests showed Pitts’ blood-alcohol level was .135%, which is above the legal limit. There was also a presence of cannabinoids.

A further investigation found that Pitts has never held a valid driver’s license.

Pitts was charged with homicide by vehicle–DUI, driving under the influence, accidents involving death or personal injury while not properly licensed, reckless driving, driving without a license, and related charges. Bail was set at $90,000 cash.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 8.