Warren Man Charged With Fleeing Scene Of Fatal I-94 Crash
CLINTON TWP. (WWJ) - A Warren man has been charged in connection with an accident that killed a 28-year-old Westland woman.
Jessica Hays died Sunday, March 20, along eastbound I-94 in Harrison Township after her disabled Dodge Avenger — which was parked on the freeway near Metro Parkway, facing the wrong way — was hit head-on by a Chrysler Town & Country mini-van.
Macomb County Sheriff's officials say the mini-van was then struck from behind by a third vehicle, driven by 23-year-old Stephen Anthony Tate.
Tate allegedly fled the accident scene on foot, later returning with a private towing company to remove his car.
After interviewing witnesses and examining the damage to the Avenger, investigators were able to identify the striking vehicle, tracing it to a home in Warren. When the vehicle was located, it was partially covered by a tarp and the damaged parts had been removed.
Friday, a warrant was issued for Tate's arrest and he turned himself in. Sheriff's officials say he confessed to the crime.
He was arraigned via video 41B District Court of Clinton Township on charges of failing to stop at the scene of an accident - when at fault - resulting in death, a 15-year felony; and tampering with evidence in a criminal case, a 10-year felony.
Tate posted a $15,000 cash/surety bond, was released and is due back in court on Wednesday, April 20.
Sheriff's officials say the mini-van driver, a 52-year-old Clinton Township woman, was found not to have been at fault in the accident.
An investigation continues. Anyone who might have witnessed the crash, or anyone who has any information about this case is asked to call Det. Tony Petrykowski at 586-307-9367.