Driver Pleads Guilty to Third Degree Murder in Death of 30-Year-Old Dr. Barbara Friedes Near Rittenhouse Square, Sentencing Next Month

Michael Vahey has pleaded guilty to Third Degree Murder and multiple charges related to the death of Dr. Barbara Friedes, a 30-year-old oncology doctor at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). The incident occurred last summer when Vahey struck Dr. Friedes while she was riding her bicycle near Rittenhouse Square. His attorney stated that Vahey would switch places with her if he could. The court proceedings have highlighted the dangers of impaired driving, especially in areas designated for cyclists. Sentencing is scheduled for next month, following the guilty plea.