The driver accused of killing a 12-year-old Valley Stream boy with his SUV last week is facing upgraded charges.

Police say Austin Soldano, 29, was at the wheel when he accidentally hit and killed seventh-grader Zachary Ranftle. Soldano was originally charged with driving with a suspended license.

Nassau Judge Angelo A. Delligatti ordered Soldano's case sent to the grand jury and increased his bail from $5,000 to $50,000, attaching the case to an open drunken driving arrest from August. Soldano was charged with DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and resisting arrest.

Soldano was also charged with reckless endangerment, operating without a registration and fleeing a police officer back in April.

In court, Assistant District Attorney Christopher Casa told the judge that Soldano's continuing to drive after his arrests "was a blatant disregard for orders of this court and an audacious act."

Brunetti says his client is remorseful. He said that Soldano gave the Ranftle family $10,000 with a condolence card. The attorney said more money would be sent to help with funeral expenses.

A Ranftle family representative said they won't accept the money. The family held a funeral service for Zachary at St. John's Cemetery in Queens Wednesday.

It could take several weeks before the grand jury hands up its decision.