Staff Report/April 11, 2025
Hornell man convicted in high-speed, drug-influenced crash that killed Nunda resident in Avoca.
Michael S. Eldridge, 27, of Hornell, has been found guilty on all charges related to a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred in Avoca in August 2023. The verdict was delivered Thursday afternoon by a Steuben County jury.
Eldridge faced charges including first-degree assault, vehicular manslaughter, and third-degree assault. Prosecutors presented evidence that Eldridge had been under the influence of marijuana for an extended period before driving at 87 mph in a 55 mph zone. The crash resulted in the death of 51-year-old Michael A. Hinrich of Nunda, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident occurred on August 6, 2023, at the intersection of State Route 415 and Michigan Hollow Road in Avoca. Hinrich was attempting to turn south onto Route 415 when his vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by Eldridge’s northbound car. In addition to Hinrich’s death, two passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital.
Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker, who prosecuted the case alongside Assistant Senior District Attorney Joe Pelych, stated that Eldridge could face up to 25 years in prison when sentenced by Judge Matthew McCarthy.
Eldridge is scheduled to be sentenced on May 15, 2025.
