Slingerlands man admits to drugged driving crash that killed teen

A Slingerlands man faces up to 12 years in prison for driving under the influence of drugs and causing a crash that killed a South Colonie teen.

Thomas McGrath pleaded guilty in Albany County Court on Wednesday to second-degree manslaughter and driving while ability impaired.

The crash happened on the afternoon of May 11, 2023 on Route 85 near the Albany/Bethlehem line. The crash killed Michael Kleinke, who was a senior at South Colonie High School.

McGrath was driving while under the influence of narcotics and medications.

McGrath is scheduled to be sentenced on June 16. He faces 4 to 12 years in prison.