Local man hit by drunk driver will be taken off life support

MALTA, N.Y. (NEWS10) — A Ballston Spa man who was fighting for his life after being hit by an accused drunk driver earlier this month has succumbed to his injuries. A representative of Josh Soden’s family spoke on the tragedy that ended the young man’s life.

Attorney Ryan Finn, Managing Partner, Owner at Finn Law Offices explained, “Josh was unfortunately struck by a drunk driver on September 8th, and he was fighting for his life for several days, giving up the good fight. Unfortunately, tonight, we can announce that he has lost his life as a result of this tragic accident.”

29-year-old Josh Soden suffered traumatic brain injuries after police said an off-duty coworker, 33-year-old Morgan Lange, ran him over. “At the scene, Josh was trapped underneath the vehicle for an extended period of time, and they had to work very, [it was] very difficult to get him removed from underneath that vehicle,” said Finn.

“My understanding is that there was a group of coworkers from Bentley’s that went out to dinner at Lagos, celebrated down there and then continued their celebration at Bentley’s. It is important to note that Josh was not drinking himself,” explained the attorney.

New York State Police confirm they arrested Lange and charged her with a DWI, vehicular assault and tampering with physical evidence among other charges. Her blood alcohol level was 0.12.

Josh graduated from Ballston Spa High School and his family said he was a health fanatic that loved going to the gym. He loved to play basketball, but his favorite sport was soccer. His family said Josh excelled in the service industry from the moment he started and then became a bartender at Bentley’s.

Soden is an organ donor, and his family said his gift will give hope to 70 other families. Albany Medical Center is planning to host an honor walk for Josh in the coming days. “He laid in that bed for a week fighting for his life. And anyone who knows Josh knows he’s a fighter. I’ve known him for years. He’s a great man. He lit up the world, that kid. And he’s going to be very much missed,” said Finn.

State Police say they are asking the public for any information they may have, whether it be text messages or video from that night on September 8th at Bentley’s. You can submit an anonymous tip to the NYSP tip line.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family with Josh’s funeral expenses and growing medical bills.