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Bail increased for repeat DUI offender accused of killing cyclist in Renton

RENTON, Wash. — A man charged with hitting and killing a cyclist in Renton while driving impaired went before a judge Thursday morning.

Vern Henderson pleaded "not guilty" to charges of vehicular homicide at the Regional Justice Center.

Prosecutors said on Dec. 7, Henderson was driving under the influence of PCP and painkillers when he hit 24-year-old Taylor Goehring while she was riding her bike on Rainier Avenue in Renton.

Arrest records showed Henderson was too impaired to realize that he hit a person. Goehring passed away from her injuries last week.

Her family and friends were in the courtroom today.

“At this point, it’s really pathetic the DWI laws here in Washington,” said Edward Goehring, father of the victim.

“I wonder how many “Verns” are out there driving in Washington roads right now that we are unaware of,” said Sharon Witson, who’s a friend of the victim.

Henderson has a long criminal history. Charging documents shows he has four previous DUI convictions. Henderson also has a trial set for next February for a DUI arrest from last December.

Today the judge complied with the state's request to boost Henderson's bail to $750,000.

Vern Henderson remains behind bars. He is due back in court in January.

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