WATERTOWN TOWNSHIP, Michigan – A tragic incident unfolded on a busy Saturday evening when a 35-year-old pregnant woman, identified as Ashley Monroe, drove her vehicle into a crowd of pedestrians, resulting in the death of two individuals and the injury of sixteen others. According to the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe was found to be heavily intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content level of 0.183, more than double the legal limit.
The incident occurred on South Wacousta Road near Corrison Road, approximately 15 miles northwest of Lansing. Monroe initially fled the scene but was quickly apprehended by authorities. Investigators discovered hair, blood, and tissue from the victims on Monroe’s vehicle, revealing the severity of the collision.
The two fatalities have been identified as Johnathan Esch, 30, and Daniel Harris, 42. Fourteen other victims, ranging in age from 2 to 61, were transported to the hospital for treatment. While a 38-year-old woman is currently in critical condition, the others sustained non-life-threatening injuries, as confirmed by law enforcement officials.
Ashley Monroe now faces multiple charges, including operating a vehicle while intoxicated, failure to stop at the scene of an accident causing death, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing serious injury. Additional charges include failure to stop at the scene of an accident leading to serious impairment or death. During Monroe’s arraignment, the prosecution demanded a bond of $500,000, noting the serious risk she poses to the public.
Monroe’s defense attorney, Ronald Zawacki, highlighted her role as a mother of four children, aged between 1 and 13, with another child on the way. Zawacki also mentioned Monroe’s employment at the Michigan Secretary of State’s office. However, District Court Judge Michael Clarizio set her bond at $1 million, acknowledging the gravity of the incident.
Currently held at the Clinton County Jail, Monroe’s probable cause hearing is scheduled for May 30