Father-to-Be Dies After Alleged Intentional Crash; Charges Filed

UPDATE: The family of Daniel Waterman, a father-to-be who tragically died following a car crash allegedly caused by his girlfriend, is speaking out through their attorney. They express satisfaction with the recent upgrade of charges against Leigha Mumby, 24, to vehicular homicide after Waterman succumbed to his injuries on October 8, 2025, in Flagler County, Florida.

This shocking incident unfolded in February when Waterman, 22, was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Mumby. Authorities reported that Waterman sustained critical injuries during the crash on I-95 North. He battled for his life for eight months before passing away. According to police, he revealed from his hospital bed that Mumby said, “I don’t care what happens. You’ll get what you deserve,” just before the crash.

In a statement, attorney John Hager emphasized the gravity of the situation: “There are no real winners here. It’s a terrible, horrible situation… the family is satisfied with the charges filed by the State Attorney’s office in Flagler County.”

Mumby was initially arrested in July and faced charges of reckless driving causing serious bodily injury and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. Following Waterman’s death, the charges were elevated to vehicular homicide. She is currently being held at the Flagler County Jail, having posted a $150,000 bond.

Waterman’s mother revealed to Syracuse.com that he had been in a coma before waking up to recount the events leading to the crash. His grandfather, Michael Gilman, detailed the extent of Waterman’s injuries, stating, “He broke everything.” Waterman suffered severe injuries, including fractures to his neck, back, collarbone, hips, leg, and ankle.

An obituary published on Syracuse.com highlights Waterman as an excited soon-to-be father, mourning the loss of a man who longed to return to his family and newborn daughter. “Daniel passed away after courageously fighting for eight months from injuries sustained in a crash,” the obituary stated, underscoring the devastating impact of this tragic event.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Flagler County Attorney’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol have not yet commented on the case.

This incident has reignited discussions about road safety and the consequences of reckless behavior behind the wheel. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and responsible to prevent such tragedies.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.