Berlin Charter Township, Michigan – An intoxicated driver faces murder charges after crashing into a business where a child’s birthday party was being held, resulting in the tragic deaths of two young siblings, authorities revealed Tuesday.
Marshella Chidester, 66, drove into the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Charter Township around 3 p.m. on Saturday, coming to a stop 25 feet inside the building where the party was taking place, according to Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough.
During an arraignment hearing on Tuesday, Chidester was charged with two counts of second-degree murder, along with two counts of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol causing death, and four counts of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol causing serious injury. Her bond was set at $1.5 million, and if convicted, she could face up to life in prison.
Four-year-old Zayn Phillips and his eight-year-old sister, Alanah Phillips, tragically lost their lives in the crash, as reported by Goodnough. A third sibling sustained severe injuries, according to Flat Rock Community Schools’ superintendent, Andrew Brodie.
Chidester’s attorney, Bill Colovos, claimed that his client had a history of epileptic seizures in her legs and lost control of the vehicle during the crash. He also mentioned that Chidester had only consumed one glass of wine four hours prior to the incident, as revealed in a search warrant executed at a local bar.
Monroe County Prosecuting Attorney Jeffery A. Yorkey opposed the seizure explanation provided by Colovos, asserting that Chidester’s blood alcohol level was significantly above the legal limit during the crash. Yorkey stated that there was no evidence supporting the seizure claim.
The devastating impact of the crash was felt deeply by family members of Zayn and Alanah, who shared emotional accounts during the arraignment. One relative accused Chidester of driving under the influence, leading to the loss of their loved ones.
The incident resulted in injuries to approximately 13 other individuals, with nine being hospitalized and five remaining in critical condition. Chidester’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 30, as the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragic event.
As details continue to emerge surrounding the devastating crash, authorities are working to provide support to the affected families and ensure accountability for the lives lost. The community mourns the loss of Zayn and Alanah, who were looking forward to celebrating Zayn’s upcoming birthday, now turned into a heartbreaking funeral preparation.