Buffalo woman receives sentence for ramming car into two men, resulting in one death.

A Buffalo woman has received a sentence of 15 years in prison for deliberately driving her vehicle into two men, resulting in the fatality of one. Iyanna R. Scott, 22, pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in November 2024 after the incident, which occurred on May 19, 2024, in Cheektowaga, New York. Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane characterized the act as a “totally senseless crime,” highlighting the reckless nature of Scott’s actions following an argument with the victims.

The events unfolded at a car wash located on the 2200 block of Walden Avenue, where Scott was initially with the two men. Following an intense verbal dispute, an altercation ensued, prompting both men to walk away. However, Scott pursued them, accelerating her Hyundai Elantra towards them as they crossed Union Road, ultimately striking one of the men, 21-year-old Demario Patterson.

Patterson was transported by ambulance to the Erie County Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Fortunately, the second individual involved was unharmed. Following the incident, Scott fled the scene without alerting authorities. Law enforcement later located her vehicle abandoned on Briscoe Avenue in Buffalo.

Subsequent to the incident, Scott was indicted on charges of murder and attempted murder in June 2024, during which she was held without bail. In a significant development, she entered a guilty plea to first-degree manslaughter early last month. Keane expressed his condolences to the family and friends of the victim, emphasizing the tragic loss resulting from Scott’s aggressive behavior.

On Friday, State Supreme Court Justice M. William Boller imposed the sentence of 15 years in prison, which will be followed by five years of post-release supervision. The case has drawn attention for its shocking details and the severe nature of the crime, prompting discussions surrounding road safety and the consequences of reckless driving in heated situations. Authorities continue to stress the importance of managing disagreements without resorting to violence, underscoring the devastating impact such actions can have on lives and communities.

As this case highlights the potential for heated confrontations to escalate dangerously, it serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities drivers carry, as well as the legal ramifications of such reckless behavior.