Monroe County, Michigan – A Michigan woman appeared in court overnight facing charges of second-degree murder and other offenses after allegedly crashing her SUV into a boat club hosting a child’s birthday party, resulting in the tragic deaths of a four-year-old boy and his eight-year-old sister, along with injuries to several others. Marshella Chidester, 66, did not plead guilty to the eight charges brought against her in connection to the incident at the Swan Boat Club, located about 48km south of Detroit.
Chidester, whose right arm was in a cast during the court hearing, has been held in custody since the crash. Prosecutors requested a bond of US$1.5 million, a request granted by the judge after hearing pleas from relatives of the victims. Prosecutor Jeff Yorkey highlighted Chidester’s history of substance abuse issues, supported by evidence from her friends and family, as grounds for the high bond.
Defense attorney Bill Colovos argued for a lower bond of US$100,000, revealing that Chidester had only consumed a glass of wine and a bowl of chili several hours before the crash. He also mentioned her struggles with “epileptic-type seizures in her legs” since November. Colovos emphasized that Chidester had a clean record prior to the incident, with no traffic violations or police encounters.
However, prosecutor Yorkey contested Colovos’ claim of a seizure preceding the crash, citing tests that revealed Chidester’s blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. If Chidester is able to post bond, strict conditions will be imposed, such as surrendering her passport, abstaining from alcohol, wearing a tether, and refraining from driving. A probable cause conference is scheduled for April 30, followed by a preliminary examination on May 6.
The tragic crash claimed the lives of eight-year-old Alanah Phillips and her four-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips, while their mother and another sibling sustained injuries. Witness Raquel Smothers recounted the harrowing experience of witnessing the fatal incident during the birthday party. The grief-stricken Smothers expressed her disbelief and anguish at the unexpected tragedy that unfolded in front of her eyes.
In the aftermath of the crash, a lawsuit has been filed by the mother of the deceased children, Mariah Dodds, against Chidester and the establishment where the latter was reportedly before the collision. Dodds sustained serious injuries, including broken ribs, a collapsed lung, cuts, and bruises. Additionally, her surviving son suffered multiple fractures, including broken legs, ribs, and a fractured skull.
The Swan Boat Club, where the tragic event took place, is described as a membership-based organization situated near Lake Erie. The club offers various amenities, including hosting holiday parties, events, and providing docking space for boat-owning members. The venue also promotes rental options for the clubhouse or pavilion for personal events like birthday parties, catering to the recreational needs of its members.