DALLAS, TX—
Two members of a Denton County family are dead, after police say they were hit by a suspected drunk driver, who records show is a repeat offender. Neighbors were stunned. "It is just so sad and on Easter Sunday", said Tommy Stewart.33-year old Kandace Hull was killed, along with her 13-year old daughter, Autumn, when the Argyle family's car was rear-ended early Sunday morning in Lewisville along I-35W. Investigators say 29-year old John Barton was speeding when he slammed in to the sedan. He has been charged with Intoxication Manslaughter.
Hull, who friends say was a nurse was at the wheel when the accident happened. Three members of the family remain hospitalized; Hull's husband, Anthony Hull and two children ages 12 and 16.
The sad news is also prompting anger from those who knew Hull because Barton is a repeat offender. Records show the Denton man was arrested for DWI in 1999 and 2001. Most recently, documents show he was arrested in Grapevine and charged with Felony DWI, where he received jail time. Records show Barton is on parole until 2011. "He should have been locked away after the first arrest", said neighbor Stewart.
Lewisville police officials say the charges against Barton could be upgraded. Recently, prosecutors have sought murder charges against repeat drunk driving offenders involved in fatality accidents.
Mourners say they will miss the Hull family members, who they describe as very close. Friends in Argyle say the children were involved in many activities, including sports.
