OSWEGO COUNTY, NY – On Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, the New York State Police announced the arrest of Kali Seaman, age 23, of Schroeppel, in connection with a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred last month in the town of Hastings. Seaman has been formally charged with the following serious offenses:
- Vehicular Manslaughter in the First Degree (Class C Felony)
- Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated (Leandra’s Law)
- Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI – Cannabis)
- Multiple Vehicle and Traffic Violations
The charges stem from a devastating crash that occurred on July 9th, 2025, on State Route 49, when Seaman, operating a vehicle while allegedly impaired, was involved in a collision that resulted in the tragic death of a 2-year-old boy.
Following an extensive investigation by the New York State Police, including forensic analysis, witness interviews, and toxicology testing, it was determined that Seaman was under the influence of cannabis at the time of the crash. Authorities have stated that her impairment was a direct contributing factor in the events that led to the fatal collision.
This incident has drawn increased attention due to the application of Leandra’s Law, a New York statute that imposes severe penalties on drivers who operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated with a child under the age of 16 in the vehicle. While specific details of the incident are still under protective hold pending court proceedings, police have confirmed that the toddler victim was a passenger in the vehicle Seaman was driving.
On August 6th, Seaman voluntarily turned herself in to law enforcement and was subsequently arraigned in Oswego County Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court. She was remanded to the Oswego County Jail in lieu of $25,000 cash bail or $50,000 bond.
The Oswego County District Attorney’s Office is overseeing the prosecution of the case. In a brief statement, the DA’s office emphasized the gravity of the charges and reaffirmed their commitment to seeking justice for the young victim and his grieving family.
“This is a heartbreaking case involving the loss of a very young life under preventable circumstances,” the DA’s statement read. “We urge the public to recognize the life-altering consequences of impaired driving. Driving under the influence—whether by alcohol or drugs—endangers everyone on the road, especially the most vulnerable among us.”
The identity of the child victim has not been released publicly in consideration of the family’s privacy. Grief counselors and support services have reportedly been made available to the family through local agencies.
The case is expected to proceed through Oswego County Court in the coming weeks. Additional updates will be provided as the legal process continues.
Anyone with further information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact New York State Police Troop D.
Media Contact:
New York State Police Public Information Office
Phone: (315) 366-6000
Email: nyspmedia@troopers.ny.gov
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