Families of the victims of the Schoharie limousine crash are continuing to voice their disappointment and frustration in the plea bargain process in the criminal case against Prestige Limo operator Nauman Hussain.

“They did the right thing that day by hiring a limo for their ride, something we all tell our kids: Don’t drink and drive,” said Linda King, who lost her four daughters in Schoharie almost two years ago.

What You Need To Know


  • Families of Schoharie limo crash victims voicing frustration in limo operator's plea bargain process

  • Nauman Hussain charged in connection with deaths of 20 people in October 2018 crash

  • Schoharie County DA says she can't comment until case concludes

Hussain has been charged with the deaths of the four sisters, their loved ones, and friends. But now King is worried justice won’t be served.

“This is not justice for the 20 lives that were lost. This is a cop out,” she said.

King was joined by other victims’ families and attorneys on Friday, seeking to be properly informed about a potential plea deal between Hussain and Schoharie County District Attorney Susan Mallery.

“If reaching a plea bargain means the acceptance of responsibility, let that responsibility carry with it the truth, and let the truth come out,” said Cynthia LaFave, the attorney for the family of Adam and Abigail Jackson.

The attorneys say they understand the criminal proceedings are handled by the DA, and they can’t stop that process. But, if a plea bargain is reached, they want Hussain to tell the entire story of what happened – a full allocution in court.

It’s something that would help the attorneys pursue justice in civil cases.

“To discuss and explain the truth of the interactions between him and his company, as well as Mavis [Discount Tire] into why this vehicle was allowed to be on the road in the condition that it was in,” said Thomas Mortati, the attorney for the family of Savannah Bursese.

Hussain’s defense attorney, Lee Kindlon, declined to comment. Mallery says due to legal and ethical restrictions, she is unable to answer questions until the case concludes.

But the DA added, “If any agreement is reached in this case, all rights of the victims’ families shall be honored.”

“We all understand the delays due to COVID,” King said. “But we are willing to wait for what is fair and just, and for what the deceased deserve. We have to live with this tragedy for the rest of our lives.”

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