Negligent homicide is a class A misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of a year in jail.

Before she makes a decision, though, Miller said she wants to talk to the victim's wife.

"I'm going to review the case with her and see if she has any preference," Miller said. "This is obviously a very sensitive case."

The officer, whose name has not been released, was driving south on Redwood Road in the early morning hours of Feb. 7 when he struck a car driven by John Terry Douglas, 27, of Tooele, in the 4700 South intersection. Douglas, who was reportedly driving west on his way home from work, died at the scene.

Either the officer or Douglas ran a red light, but authorities so far have been mum on that detail.

West Valley City detectives on Tuesday presented the DA's office the results of their investigation. West Valley City, which neighbors Taylorsville, investigated the accident.

The Taylorsville officer on Tuesday remained on administrative leave with pay, Taylorsville Sgt. Rosie Rivera said.

Rivera declined to comment on the case, saying it was an open investigation. She said it did appear the officer was attempting to join a nearby police chase, in which another Taylorsville officer was pursuing a car theft suspect west on 4700 South.

That chase was originated by South Salt Lake police, who soon after terminated it deeming it too dangerous. But an off-duty Taylorsville officer continued the pursuit into West Jordan, where the chase ended.

rrizzo@sltrib.com