THURSTON COUNTY, Wash. — Dane Nielsen’s mother has one question for the man accused of causing the crash that killed her son.
“Was it worth it?,” asked Dee Dee Nielsen on Tuesday, Nov. 26 in court.
Matthew Orr pleaded not guilty to murder, vehicular homicide, and attempting to elude police. He is held on $1 million bail while awaiting a January trial.
On the night of Nov. 14, a Thurston County deputy tried to pull Orr over for speeding. Orr led deputies on a chase during which speeds "easily exceeded" 100 mph, according to probable cause documents.
The chase ended when Orr allegedly crashed into Nielsen's vehicle.
When taken into custody, Orr "kept stating numerous times that he was sorry, and that he only fled because he did not want a speeding ticket," according to probable cause documents.
Nielsen, described by his wife Tiffany as a devoted father to two young children — a kindergartener and a first-grader — worked as a commercial painter. Family will remember him for his musical talents and stage presence.
His mother recalled his exceptional performance skills, noting that he was "the face" of their family band, Guardian Elephant.
The Nielsen family said they will continue to follow Orr’s case in court.
Dane’s father, Mark Nielsen, said they are not seeking revenge. They just hope Orr will never be able to drive again.
Dane’s widow, Tiffany, said she is struggling getting used to being a single parent.
“I have to be strong for my kids and keep going, and that makes it difficult to have time to grieve," said Tiffany Nielsen.
Friends have established an online fundraiser to help the Nielsen family pay for a funeral and ongoing childcare expenses.