A second trial is expected to begin Wednesday in the case of Sina Khankhanian, the man charged with striking and killing Malibu 8th-grader Emily Shane as she walked along Pacific Coast Highway in 2010, Shane’s family says. Jury selection began last week. In February a jury could not reach a verdict on whether Khankhanian was guilty of second-degree murder in Shane’s death.
Multiple witnesses testified at the first trial to Khankhanian’s dangerous and erratic driving in a 17-mile stretch from Topanga Blvd. and north on PCH before he struck Shane near the intersection of Heathercliff Road, including tailgating other motorists and swerving on the road. Authorities also testified that Khankhanian had left a suicide note at his home before getting in his car, and many believe he was trying to kill himself by crashing his car.
The prosecution charge that Khankhanian is guilty of second-degree murder for killing Shane, saying he should have known his erratic and wreckless driving leading up to the crash would endanger the lives of others. The defense says Khankhanian suffers from autism and was unaware of the consequences of his actions that day.
Khankhanian faces one charge of second-degree murder. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.