A Cautionary Tale of Drunk Driving
In a harrowing reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving, former UPMC doctor Joseph Yanta pleaded guilty to charges of homicide by vehicle and DUI in a fatal crash that occurred in Pine Township in July 2022. The tragedy resulted in the untimely death of Yanta’s passenger and esteemed UPMC colleague, 47-year-old Douglas Rockacy, leaving behind a legacy of having positively impacted thousands of lives.
A Fateful Evening: Fast Cars and Fatal Mistakes
Yanta and Rockacy had attended a golf outing and visited Cenci’s Pizza in Wexford prior to the accident. Surveillance footage revealed that Yanta consumed six drinks over two and a half hours at the restaurant. The data retrieved from Yanta’s Tesla indicated that the vehicle was traveling at speeds over 120 mph in a 35 mph zone on Wexford Bayne Road when the crash occurred. Yanta had used a seatbelt, but Rockacy did not.
A Legacy Left Behind: Remembering Dr. Douglas Rockacy
Dr. Rockacy, remembered as an exceptional doctor and a calming presence in the emergency room, was less than a mile from his home at the time of the accident. He is survived by his wife and two children, who now face the arduous task of building a new life in the wake of their immense loss. In honor of Rockacy’s life and dedication to his profession, a college fund has been created for his children, raising nearly $100,000.
Justice Served: A Plea of Guilty and Consequences Faced
Eighteen months after the tragic incident, Yanta faced the consequences of his actions as he pleaded guilty to homicide by vehicle and DUI. His blood alcohol level was found to be more than twice the legal limit shortly after the crash. The court sentenced Yanta to one to two years behind bars, followed by 18 months of probation.
As the world continues to grapple with the devastating effects of drunk driving, the tragic incident involving Dr. Yanta and Dr. Rockacy stands as a poignant reminder of the immense responsibility that lies in the hands of every driver. In this heartbreaking tale of loss and accountability, their story serves as a grim testament to the catastrophic consequences of driving under the influence.
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