Shinost trial set to begin Monday

The trial for Jay Cody Shinost, who was charged with felony aggravated homicide and felony DUI that caused serious injury, is scheduled to begin in Fifth Judicial District Court in Washakie County on Monday .

He was arrested on the charges Nov. 3, 2014, in Hot Springs County.

The charges stem from the May 14, 2014, vehicle crash on Black Mountain Road that claimed the life of Madison Price and seriously injured Delanie Price and Dylan Balstad. Delanie and Dylan were transported by helicopter to Wyoming Medical Center in Casper. Delanie was moved to the Children's Hospital in Denver, Colo. where she would receive more advanced care and physical therapy. After a long stay in Colorado, she is now home with her family.

A six-month investigation into the crash determined Shinost owned and was alledgedly driving the Ford Mustang when it crashed on Wyoming Highway 172 about 15 miles north of Thermopolis around 9:50 p.m. Wyoming 172 is also known as Black Mountain Road.

None of the occupants – who were all from Thermopolis – were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash and two were totally ejected from the vehicle during the rollover. Alcohol use and speed were believed to be contributing factors during the initial investigation.

The trial was moved from Hot Springs County because of the sensitive nature of the accident and to ensure Shinost receives a fair trial. Jurors will be selected from the Washakie County jury pool.

Hot Springs County Attorney Jerry Williams will prosecute the case. He was not available for comment at press time.