NEWPORT, MI (TCD) — It is reported that a 66-year-old woman drunkenly stormed a children's birthday party over the weekend, killing two young siblings and seriously injuring several others.
According to a press release from the Monroe County Sheriff's Office., Emergency crews were called to an “extremely chaotic” scene at the Swan Boat Club at around 3pm on Saturday, April 20. female, She was later identified by the Monroe County Prosecutor's Office as Marshella Chidester., reportedly drove her car into the club, and deputies said her vehicle “came to rest approximately 25 feet inside the building.” Authorities provided aid to about 15 injured victims, including adults and children.
In an update, the sheriff's office said: Nine people, including a 31-year-old woman and an 11-year-old boy, were taken to hospital by ambulance or air ambulance, but both remain in critical condition. Three teenagers, aged 18, 16 and 14, who were taken by ambulance, are said to be in serious condition, while four older men, aged 70, 66, 62 and 57, suffered minor injuries.
The individuals took several other victims to the hospital, while a 42-year-old man treated himself for non-life-threatening injuries, according to the sheriff's office.
The siblings, 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and 4-year-old Zayn Phillips, were pronounced dead at the scene, according to authorities.
Prosecutors announced that Chidester was charged with two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of drunk driving causing death and four counts of drunk driving causing serious injury. Chidester faces up to life in prison if convicted of second-degree murder.
Chidester appeared in court for arraignment on April 23, and the judge set bail at $1.5 million. Chidester will be required to wear a GPS and an alcohol tether if he posts bail.
According to the Detroit News, Chidester's lawyers claimed she suffered a leg seizure and was left paralyzed before crashing into the boat club. But Monroe County Prosecutor Jeffrey Yorkey argued there was no evidence Chidester had a seizure that day, and a breathalyzer test showed Chidester's blood alcohol level was over the legal limit.
In a statement posted the day after the incident:'Swan Boat Club' wrote, “There are no profound words, only emotions, that can heal us after the unimaginable tragedy that occurred at Swan Boat Club yesterday, April 20, 2024.”
more:
True Crime Every Day: The Podcast Each week we cover famous and unknown events. Subscribe to our YouTube page And don't forget to follow us Instagram, Facebookand Twitter. You can also subscribe to us True Crime Daily newsletter.