JACKSON, Wyo. — A 58-year-old woman from Jackson was recently convicted for reaching speeds of up to 127 mph and killing an elk on a nighttime drive through Grand Teton National Park (GTNP), according to the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Wyoming.
Robin Thoenig was convicted of reckless driving, speeding, failing to notify authorities of a motor vehicle accident and impermissibly removing a motor vehicle from the scene of an accident.
According to the sentencing documents, at approximately 9:30 p.m. on May 10, Thoenig was driving in GTNP while visitors were gathered to see the Northern Lights. Thoenig was reportedly driving through the park at speeds of up to 127 mph in areas where the speed limit is 45 mph. As she sped, Thoenig struck and killed an elk.
Following the collision, she “drove her vehicle several miles from the scene, left it near the Gros Ventre Campground and obtained a ride out of the park,” the statement said.
Thoenig pled guilty to all four charges. On July 30, she was sentenced to three days of incarceration. She was also ordered to pay $1,000 in fines, a $750 community service payment and $70 in court fees.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariel Calmes. In an email shared with Buckrail, Calmes noted that Thoenig admitted to traveling at 127 mph, saying that she had purchased a brand-new car and “wanted to go fast in it.”
The crime was investigated by the National Park Service. GTNP encourages safe driving through the park at all times.
