A Washington County man with 11 prior DUI convictions pleaded guilty Friday to driving drunk in Ligonier Township two years ago, causing a crash that injured three motorcycle riders.
William C. Strogish, 68, of Ellsworth faces up to 20 years in prison when he is sentenced later this year, said Westmoreland County Assistant District Attorney Anthony Iannamorelli. Strogish on Friday pleaded guilty to 12 counts, including DUI and aggravated assault by vehicle.
He was charged following a July 23, 2023, crash on Route 30. Police said he was staying with family at a cabin at Linn Run State Park when he drove a SUV into oncoming traffic and struck three motorcycles about a half-mile apart. The motorcycle riders sustained injuries that required multiple surgeries and medical procedures, according to court papers.
The second crash occurred as Strogish was attempting to leave the scene, according to witnesses. Police said he had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and was in possession of a beer can that fell to the ground as he got out of the SUV.
He had a blood alcohol content of 0.08% — the level that motorists are considered intoxicated under Pennsylvania law — when he was tested 90 minutes after the crash, according to court papers.
Strogish, according to county prosecutors, has had 11 prior convictions for drunk driving Washington and Greene counties dating back to 1992 and has not had a valid driver’s license since 1976. His guilty plea Friday represents his 12th DUI conviction.
Westmoreland County Common Pleas Court Judge Meagan Bilik-DeFazio ordered Strogish to remain in custody pending sentencing. Through his defense attorney, Strogish waived his right to be in the courtroom for that hearing and will appear via video from state prison, the judge said.