Ali Montoya admits guilt after crash that killed Calgary taxi driver, passenger

The man accused of being impairedbehind the wheel in a crash that killed a taxi driver and his 25-year-old passenger has pleaded guilty.

AliMontoyaentered theguilty pleain court Friday to two counts of criminal negligence causing death and onecount of criminal negligence causing bodily harm.

Last May, hisCadillac Escaladeran a red light on Macleod Trail and12thAvenue S.E., hitting a small car, which then struck the taxi.

The 46-year-old taxi driver,AmritpalKharbanda, died at the scene and his passenger,JillianLavallee, died in hospital hours later.

The driver of the small car was also injured in the crash.

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It was an emotional day for JillianLavallee's family in court on Friday.

"We're pleased that Mr. Montoya chose to plead guilty and not put the family through the preliminary and a full trial," said herfather,Dan Lavallee.

"I hope that means he's remorseful."

The Lavalleefamily has raised money for Kharbanda's wife and two children,and forMothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Montoyawill next appear in court on June 3 to set a date for his sentencing hearing.