A motorist pleaded not guilty Tuesday to one count of murder and multiple other charges, three days after he allegedly drove his car into pedestrians at the famed Venice Beach Boardwalk in California, killing an Italian honeymooner.
Nathan Louis Campbell, 38, is charged with murder, 16 counts of assault with a deadly weapon and 17 counts of hit-and-run, said Deputy District Attorney Gary Hearnsberger.
The charges include the special allegation of use of a deadly weapon, a car. Campbell, who was being held on $1.48 million bail, could face a life sentence if convicted.
Campbell, wearing a blue jail jumpsuit at his arraignment, was handcuffed at the waist and wrists.
When asked whether he wanted to waive his right to a speedy trial, Campbell answered, 'Yes, sir' during the brief appearance.
His court-appointed attorney, Philip Dube, said his client was 'very distraught' over the incident, but did not deliberately strike anyone.
'I don't believe he intentionally tried to hit anybody, based on my cursory review of the case and my discussions with the D.A.,' said Dube.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Keith L. Schwartz set the next hearing for September 4. He and attorneys will discuss scheduling a preliminary hearing.
Campbell is accused of driving his 2008 Dodge Avenger onto the boardwalk, killing 32-year-old Alice Gruppioni of Italy. She suffered blunt trauma to the head and neck, accordi.