A horrific incident has unfolded at the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township, Michigan, where a driver crashed into the building, claiming the lives of two young siblings and injuring nearly a dozen others.
The Accused: Marshella Chidester
The alleged perpetrator, 66-year-old Marshella Marie Chidester of Newport, faces multiple charges, including two counts of second-degree homicide. Authorities also charged her with two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and four counts of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury.
The Victims: Alanah and Zayn Phillips
The victims of this senseless act have been identified as Alanah Phillips, 8, and Zayn Phillips, 5. The children were siblings who were attending a birthday party when tragedy struck.
The Crash
On Saturday afternoon, reports came in of a driver plowing into the Swan Boat Club. The building was hosting a kid’s birthday party at the time.
The car plunged 25 feet into the club, instantly killing the two young children. Nine others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to local hospitals. Two victims are in critical condition, including the children’s mother and 11-year-old brother, as per their aunt.
Witness Accounts
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough described the scene as “extremely chaotic” and “horrific” at a press conference held hours after the tragedy.
“First responders reported high levels of emotions from those involved and those who witnessed the incident,” he said.
The Investigation Continues
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate this incident to identify all individuals who were injured or witnessed the collision. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Authorities urge anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
Possible Consequences
The charges against Chidester carry potentially heavy consequences. The murder charges alone can result in a life sentence. Each count of driving while intoxicated causing death is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, while the remaining charges carry a maximum of five years each.
Community in Mourning
The community of Berlin Township is reeling from this tragedy. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of the victims and the other victims of this horrific incident.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes the importance of responsible driving and reminds motorists to prioritize the well-being of others by avoiding alcohol consumption while behind the wheel.
Anyone with any information that could assist the investigation is strongly encouraged to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office at 734-240-7530.
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