Kimble Smith has been waiting the better part of a year to apologize to Craig Warburton's family for his role in a fatal drag race along Murray Parkway last August.
The opportunity finally came Thursday, after Smith admitted to driving the car that struck and killed the 13-year-old boy.
Smith pleaded guilty to five misdemeanor charges of negligent homicide, assault, reckless driving and exhibition driving.
"Kimble's always been prepared to accept a level of culpability," defense attorney Scott Williams said. "He's always felt terrible and has been waiting to express his sorrow and regret.
"One of his primary frustrations is that for eight months he hasn't been able to address them. Today he told them he was sorry."
Smith's two-day trial before 3rd District Juvenile Judge Andrew Valdez was set to begin Thursday morning, but state prosecutors offered a plea agreement before the trial began.
Smith, who was 17 at the time of the accident, was originally charged with second-degree felony manslaughter, aggravated abuse, exhibition driving and reckless driving.
The offer surprised Williams, who suggested a similar deal months ago.
"We never felt the level of offenses as charged were legally appropriate," Williams said.
Smith's racemate, Christian Paul, was also charged in the accident. At his December trial, Valdez found Paul not guilty of the manslaughter and aggravated abuse charges and guilty of exhibition driving. He was not charged with reckless driving.
Valdez determined the race ended before Smith lost control of his Porsche 944 Turbo and spun out near 5900 South on Murray Parkway, striking Warburton and his friends walking home from a Riverview Junior High School dance.
Warburton was killed instantly. Another boy was critically injured, and two others were struck but uninjured.
Smith lost his driver's license immediately after the accident, and his driving privileges will not be reinstated until shortly before his 21st birthday. He also spent some time in home confinement.
The juvenile charges carry decreased penalties than those in the adult system, although the now 18-year-old Smith may be ordered to serve time either in either an adult or a juvenile facility.
"He's as ready as anyone can be (to serve time)," Williams said. "I really think it would be a shame if any of that came up. It's incredible how good a kid this is."
E-MAIL: awelling@desnews.com