A tragic incident occurred in Michigan, when a heavily inebriated pregnant woman named Ashley Monroe plowed into an extended family crossing the street, injuring 13 people and killing two. Monroe pleaded not guilty to multiple charges related to the incident, including operating under the influence and failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing death. Prosecutors revealed that she had fled the scene of the crash with a mostly-empty bottle of Crown Royal and two bottles of antidepressants in her purse. Additionally, blood and tissue belonging to the victims were found in the wreckage of her car, which sustained heavy front-end damage. Monroe’s blood alcohol content was more than twice the legal limit when tested in custody.
The victims of the crash included two individuals, Johnathan Esch and Daniel Harris, who tragically lost their lives at the scene. The remaining 14 victims, who range in age from 2 to 61 and are known to each other as family, were rushed to a nearby hospital. One woman remains in critical condition, while the injuries of the other victims were deemed non-life-threatening by the authorities. It was noted that seven of the victims in the crowd were children under the age of 8. The assistant prosecutor argued for a $500,000 bond for Monroe, citing her as a serious risk to the public.
Monroe’s defense attorney revealed that she lives with her fiancé and four children, ages 13, 11, 7, and 1, and has been a lifelong Michigan resident with a clean criminal record. Despite the attorney’s plea for a lower bond amount, District Court Judge Michael Clarizio doubled the recommended amount and set Monroe’s bond at $1 million cash/surety. Clarizio emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that two individuals had lost their lives prematurely, making this a case with multiple victims. Monroe is currently awaiting her probable cause hearing, which is scheduled for May 30, while being held in custody at Clinton County Jail.
This devastating incident has brought sorrow and tragedy to the community, with the loss of two lives and multiple injuries among family members. The reckless actions of the accused, who was found to be heavily intoxicated at the time of the crash, have had a profound impact on the victims and their loved ones. As the legal process unfolds, the court will determine the appropriate course of action for Monroe, who will face the consequences of her alleged role in this heartbreaking event. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the devastating consequences that can result from such reckless behavior. The community must come together to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.
