Aurora Man Sentenced for Fatal Hit-and-Run
A judge sentenced a 73-year-old driver to five years in prison following a fatal crash in Aurora.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Financial Crime
Michael Graham-Hyde received a five-year prison sentence for a hit-and-run crash that killed 65-year-old Alberto Buitrago and his dog. The court also ordered Graham-Hyde to pay $18,000 in restitution and serve five years of parole.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes the legal proceedings for a fatal incident that occurred after the defendant lost control of his SUV while driving at a high rate of speed. Graham-Hyde had previously pleaded guilty to charges related to fleeing the scene and careless driving.
The 73-year-old defendant, Michael Graham-Hyde, received a five-year prison term followed by five years of parole. The court also mandated the payment of $18,000 in restitution.
The players
Michael Graham-Hyde
He is the 73-year-old defendant who pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident involving death and careless driving.
Alberto Buitrago
He was the 65-year-old victim who died after being struck by an SUV at an intersection.
The details
Graham-Hyde struck Alberto Buitrago and his 2-year-old dog with his SUV while traveling westbound on East Wesley Drive at a high rate of speed. He fled the intersection of East Wesley Drive and East Caspian Circle before turning himself in at the Aurora Municipal Center.
Timeline
The crash occurred on April 3 at 7:30 p.m.
The defendant was sentenced in October 2026.
Legal Context
This sentencing follows the standard application of Colorado's felony hit-and-run statutes. It reflects the typical judicial response to fatal traffic accidents where the driver flees the scene of the incident.
Residents in the area should remain aware of traffic safety at the intersection of East Wesley Drive and East Caspian Circle. The conclusion of this case marks the end of the legal proceedings regarding the fatal April crash.
The takeaway
This case highlights the severe legal consequences for drivers who flee the scene of an accident involving fatalities. Authorities emphasize that turning oneself in is a legal requirement immediately following any collision.
Further reading
For more on local legal developments, visit the Financial Crime section.
