The Michigan Court of Appeals has heard arguments in the case of a Buchanan man accused of driving drunk and killing a road worker nearly three years ago.

Taylor Ryan Johnson is charged in the July 2022 death of William “Mack” Isom, who was trimming trees along Red Bud Trail in Oronoko Township.

Johnson’s blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit. The case has seen multiple delays and was set for trial in June 2023 before another appeal was filed. If convicted, Johnson faces up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Leader Publications reports the defense had previously tried to introduce evidence of the victim’s alleged negligence, but higher courts upheld the decision to block it.

Arguments were heard in Grand Rapids; a ruling has not yet been issued.