By Trend News Line 2024-06-27 18:53:59.
Berlin Township Woman Faces Murder Trial After Fatal Crash
In a tragic incident that shook the community of Berlin Township, Monroe County, a 66-year-old woman named Marshella Chidester is set to stand trial for murder after allegedly crashing into a child’s birthday party while under the influence of alcohol. The devastating crash took the lives of two young children and left 11 others injured at the Swan Boat Club in April.
Details of the Tragic Incident
On the fateful day of the crash, surveillance video from Chidester’s own home captured her leaving in an unsteady manner before getting into her vehicle. The footage shows her backing out of her driveway and hitting her neighbor’s truck before speeding off towards the birthday party. Prosecutors argued that she was not fully in control when she left her home, leading to the catastrophic events that followed.
Response from the Community
A neighbour who heard the crash rushed to the scene and recorded the devastation caused by Chidester’s vehicle. The heart-wrenching scene showed a mother and two children pinned under the car inside the building, with injured individuals scattered across the room. The community came together to try and rescue the trapped children, but tragically, it was too late for 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and her 5-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
Following the incident, Chidester was charged with two counts of second-degree murder and multiple counts of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol causing death and serious injury. Despite claiming to have only consumed a small amount of alcohol that day, her blood alcohol level was found to be more than double the legal limit. The defense argues that she had only had one glass of wine and that a medical emergency caused the crash.
Upcoming Trial and Potential Sentence
The trial is scheduled to begin on July 12, where Chidester will face the possibility of life in prison if convicted. The community continues to mourn the loss of the young siblings and support the injured victims as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event. The trial will bring closure and justice to those affected by this senseless tragedy.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the memory of Alanah and Zayn Phillips will live on in the hearts of their loved ones and the community of Berlin Township. May their souls rest in peace as justice is sought for the devastating loss they endured..
Monroe woman stand trial birthday party crash killed children
Woman stand trial birthday party crash killed children Monroe.