Woman pleads guilty in McKeesport crash that killed local grandmother

A woman submitted a guilty plea in connection with a crash that killed a local grandmother.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Woman dead after crash in McKeesport; neighbors call for safety improvements

Online court records show Brittney N. McPherson, 34, pleaded guilty Thursday to homicide by vehicle while DUI, aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of children, DUI and several summary offenses.

A number of additional charges were withdrawn as part of the plea.

The crash happened late Feb. 14 at the intersection of Rockwood and 28th streets in McKeesport.

Two vehicles were involved: a Dodge Caravan with two adults and three children inside, and a Honda Accord with two adults inside.

The Honda’s passenger, 69-year-old Donna DeFrances, did not survive. The driver was her son-in-law, Rob Longo, who suffered serious injuries.

An adult and a child from the Dodge were taken to the hospital.

Nearly a month after the crash, police filed charges against McPherson.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Relative of grandmother who died in crash speaks out after police file charges against a driver

Investigators allege that toxicology reports showed McPherson had a blood-alcohol content of .086% and THC in her system when the crash happened.

She was reportedly driving 56 mph in a 25 mph zone.

DeFrances’ family has called for justice in the case, speaking out after a judge granted McPherson bail with conditions.

McPherson’s sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 18.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

©2026 Cox Media Group