Jury deliberations to continue Monday in manslaughter trial over 10-year-old’s death

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - A jury did not reach a verdict Friday in the reckless manslaughter trial of a man charged in connection with the death of 10-year-old Ember Poe.

John David Winton faces reckless manslaughter and drug charges after Poe was allegedly struck while riding her scooter on Springcreek Road in Montevallo in November 2024. Poe died eight days following the incident.

Winton also faces unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Much of the argument on Friday focused on whether Winton had drugs in his system at the time of the crash.

Following the crash, Winton told police he had a substance in his truck, that it was not his, but rather something he had found while at work two days prior. That also included a broken glass pipe.

Winton told officers he had nothing in his system except Advil. During a police interview days later, Winton told investigators he had used methamphetamine five days prior to the crash.

The defense said Winton passed a field sobriety test and showed no indication he had a substance in his system at the time of the crash.

The defense also argued Winton did not see Poe in the road until she was directly in front of the truck, illuminated by its headlights. The state argued she was visible as he was approaching, giving him time to react.

Closing arguments were made Friday morning before the jury began deliberations just after 11 a.m.

Jurors will resume deliberations on Monday, March 16.

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