HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The suspect in a hit-and-run accident last week made a court appearance where he was told of the new charge he faces: first-degree murder.

Upon hearing the charge, Taylor Lakone immediately told the judge that hitting Jose Lopez with his car while Lopez was riding his bicycle was neither intentional or premeditated.

The fatal incident happened in the 1200 block of East 4th back on Sept. 21. Lopez was taken to a Wichita hospital where he died Monday.

The state says the act by Lakone was intentional, but he denies that.

Appearing from the Reno County Correctional Facility, he asked to appear in person in the courtroom for any future hearings.

He also asked for a reduction of the $100,000 bond, which was denied. His case now moves to a waiver-status docket on Oct. 18.