RELATED STORIES
Accident – Death – Obituary News : Following a tragic incident in Sterling Heights, two young men have been bound over on first-degree felony-murder charges for their alleged involvement in a fatal crash that occurred after they were part of a group that stole high-performance vehicles from a dealership in the Romeo area.
**The Incident in Washington Township**
Angelo Rickey Smith II, 20, and Taiyon J.J. Jennings, 22, are set to face these charges in Macomb County Circuit Court in Mount Clemens. The preliminary examination in 41A District Court in Sterling Heights lasted 4-1/2 hours, during which various details surrounding the case were brought to light.
**Charges and Potential Sentences**
The two defendants are facing first-degree felony murder charges, which carry a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole. Additionally, they are also up against alternate charges of second-degree murder, which could allow for potential parole, as well as other lesser charges.
**The Fatal Crash**
The fatal crash took place at 11 p.m. on April 29, 2021, claiming the life of Emmon Woods, 20, who was driving a silver Malibu. The vehicle was struck by a stolen Jeep Cherokee traveling at approximately 76 mph, moments after the theft from Jim Riehl’s Friendly Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership in Washington Township.
**Police Pursuit and Aftermath**
Macomb Sheriff’s officials spotted the stolen Cherokee on Van Dyke Avenue and attempted to pursue it. However, the pursuit was called off due to the high speed of the vehicle. Subsequently, the Jeep ran a red light at the intersection of southbound Van Dyke Avenue and 15 Mile Road, resulting in the fatal collision.
**DNA Evidence and Surveillance Footage**
DNA evidence linking both Smith and Jennings to the stolen vehicle was found inside, with surveillance footage suggesting the possibility that Jennings initially drove the Cherokee out of the dealership. However, the defense attorneys have raised concerns about the identification of their clients and their alleged involvement in the theft and subsequent crash.
**Legal Proceedings and Arguments**
During the preliminary examination, defense attorneys argued that the felony-murder charge may not be appropriate, as there was no police pursuit at the time of the crash. They maintained that reckless driving, rather than murder, should be considered in this case. Prosecutors, on the other hand, contended that the potential consequences of stealing high-performance vehicles were foreseeable.
**Upcoming Court Arraignments and Bond Evaluation**
The defendants are scheduled to appear for their circuit court arraignments next month, with mental evaluations of Smith causing some delays in the legal proceedings. Both Smith and Jennings are currently held on a $500,000 bond, with discussions ongoing about potentially lowering this amount.
**Family Support and Community Impact**
Throughout the proceedings, both defendants have had the support of their family members, who have been present during court hearings. The impact of this incident on the community and the families involved is significant, highlighting the importance of accountability and justice in such cases.
In conclusion, the legal process surrounding this tragic event continues to unfold, shedding light on the complexities of the case and the challenges faced by all parties involved. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of criminal actions and the importance of upholding the law to ensure justice for the victims and their families..