16 Mar 2012

American Samoa church minister faces vehicular homicide charges

7:23 am on 16 March 2012

Charges have been filed against an American Samoa church minister in connection with an accident that killed a 12 year old girl in 2010.

Reverend Aliioaiga Filoiaii of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa in Faleniu has been charged with vehicular homicide.

The government's case says the victim was walking on the sidewalk in Faleniu with a friend and was struck by a truck when she stepped on to the road.

The truck was driven by Rev. Aliioaiga, and according to the government the vehcle was speeding.

His bail was reduced from $5,000 to $2500 during his initial appearance.

A preliminary examination is set for March 19.