A Kalispell motorist involved in a deadly November 2024 wreck on Montana 35 is now facing a felony vehicular homicide while under the influence charge.  

John Hunter Speier, 42, had more than four times the legal limit for THC in his system when his Jeep plowed into a car near mile marker 35 about 11:16 p.m., Nov. 25, 2024, prosecutors wrote in charging documents filed in Flathead County District Court last month. He is expected to appear before Judge Dan Wilson on Nov. 5 for his arraignment. 

Speier was heading north at speeds of about 97 mph when he allegedly crossed the center line and collided with a vehicle heading south. A passenger in the latter vehicle was killed in the wreck. Speier and the other driver were both hospitalized, court documents said.  

After questioning the survivors about the crash, investigators took blood samples from both, according to court documents. Along with THC, Speier allegedly had alcohol in his system. A toxicology report showed that the other driver was free of any substances, court documents said.  

Vehicular homicide while under the influence is punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $50,000 fine. 

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 406-758-4430 or [email protected]. If you value local journalism, pledge your support at dailyinterlake.com/support.