A man who caused a crash that critically injured a New Prairie baseball player will spend nine years in prison.

Shawn Akison pleaded guilty and was also sentenced to three years of probation and a two-year license suspension.

Investigators say Akison drove a box truck into a team bus on State Road 2 nearly a year ago while it was headed to a game.

He pleaded guilty to causing serious injuries while driving under the influence.

Family members from both sides spoke at sentencing.

Akison apologized in court and said he had been praying for the injured player.