WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, Vt. (AP) – The New Hampshire driver accused of fleeing a crash that killed his friend has been sentenced to serve at least five years in prison.

Clayton Flye, 22, formerly of Claremont, pleaded no contest on Friday, to charges of leaving the scene of a fatal crash and drunken driving with death resulting.

The crash last year killed Jordan Buckley, of Claremont, N.H. Authorities said Buckley burned to death in the car as Flye ran away.

Police said Flye crashed the car into a utility pole early on July 24 during a police chase that reached speeds of 90 mph on Vermont Route 14 in Royalton. The car burst into flames.

Flye was found on the other side of the White River and treated for burns and lacerations.

Flye was ordered to live at his mother’s residence in Chelsea until the trial was completed.

As part of the plea agreement, prosecutors dropped charges of gross negligence, attempting to elude police, driving with a suspended license and possession of marijuana

In addition to prison time, Vermont District Court Judge Theresa S. DiMauro ordered Flye to complete 200 hours of community service in a hospital burn unit or similar location after he is released from prison.

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