Romulus Woman Charged With Murder In Hit-And-Run Death Of 8-Year-Old Boy
WESTLAND (WWJ) - Murder charges have been filed against a Romulus woman accused of running over a young Westland boy and driving off.
After the 8-year-old victim died, Wayne County prosecutors amended the charges to include second degree murder and revoked bond for 39-year-old Kimberly Garrett.
WWJ Newsradio 950's Vickie Thomas reported Garret was in tears when she appeared before 18th District Court Judge Sandra Cicirelli on Monday.
Investigators say Garrett was on illegal narcotics when she hit Kayale Fruge, who was riding his bike on Delton Street the evening of June 20. A witness followed her to a home where she was arrested.
Kayale died four days later after he was taken off of life support by his family.
Among Kayale's family members in court on Monday was his great-aunt, Alesia Whiting, who said she's heartbroken.
"The whole family (has been offering) support, the whole neighborhood, support. The mayor of Westland came out and spoke," Whiting said. "We talked about improving Westland neighborhoods, getting something done where they can have sidewalks and a rail to protect the kids."
Garrett didn't stop at the scene, but a citizen followed her to a home where she was arrested.
Whiting wanted to see first degree murder charges.
"It's not enough when she took an innocent 8-year-old's life," Whiting said. "Second degree murder...(from what) I understand, with all the other charges, she'll be locked up in prison for a long time, but that's nothing to replace to life that you took..."
Along with murder, Garrett is also charged with operating while intoxicated resulting in death, reckless driving resulting in death, failure to stop at an accident causing serious injury or death and operating while under the influence - second offense.
A not guilty was entered on Garrett's behalf.
She will be back in court for a probable cause hearing on July 2 and a preliminary exam on July 9.