Michigan authorities have released the name and mugshot of the suspect, Marshella Marie Chidester, who crashed a car into a boat club in Newport, killing two children and injuring nearly a dozen others. Chidester has been charged with two counts of second-degree homicide, two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and four counts of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury. The tragic incident occurred on a Saturday afternoon while a birthday party was taking place at the boat club.
The car driven by Chidester plunged 25 feet into the boat club, resulting in the deaths of Alanah Phillips, 8, and Zayn Phillips, 5, who were siblings. Nine other individuals were seriously injured and had to be transported to local hospitals for treatment. Among these victims were a 31-year-old woman and an 11-year-old boy who are reportedly in critical condition. The tragic event left a 16-year-old girl, a 14-year-old boy, and an 18-year-old woman in a serious condition as well, undergoing treatment for their injuries.
During a press conference held after the incident, Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough became emotional as he described the chaotic and horrific scene that first responders encountered. The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate the incident to ensure that all injured individuals are identified and that witnesses are provided with appropriate support. Additionally, authorities mentioned that Chidester’s murder charges could result in life imprisonment, while her intoxicated driving charges carry a maximum of 15 years in prison for each causing death charge.
After the tragic crash, Chidester was transported to Monroe County Jail where she is currently being held on a bond of $1,500,000. Her upcoming court appearances are scheduled for April 30th and May 6th. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office to assist in the ongoing investigation. The community has been left in shock and mourning following the loss of two young lives and the serious injuries sustained by several others as a result of this devastating event.
