Driver accused of swerving to kill newlyweds is charged

BOISE – A driver accused of intentionally striking and killing young newlyweds holding hands on an Idaho sidewalk has been charged with murder.

Boise news station KTVB-TV reports that 37-year-old Jason Verwer faces two counts of second-degree murder. He’s being held on $1 million bond.

Prosecutor Ross Pittman says a witness told investigators that Verwer was speeding last Wednesday when he abruptly swerved into 22-year-old Matthew Parkinson and his 17-year-old wife, Amelia.

He was arrested and sent to a mental health facility.

A judge on Tuesday issued an order appointing a public defender, but it’s not clear if one has been assigned. Payette County officials didn’t immediately return calls from the Associated Press.

Verwer’s preliminary hearing will be scheduled after he undergoes a psychiatric evaluation.