WAYLAND, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Four children were hospitalized, with one remaining in critical condition following a hit and run crash in Allegan County on Wednesday, March 8.
According to the Michigan State Police, the two-vehicle crash took place around 7:38 p.m. at Division Street and 142nd Avenue in Leighton Township.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of a Honda minivan heading south on Division Street was stopped at a stop sign at the intersection of Division Street and 142nd Avenue. The driver of a GMC pickup also heading south on Division Street failed to stop and rearended the Honda.
The driver of the pickup fled the scene without stopping to render aid or report a crash. However, troopers were able to locate the pickup and the suspected driver, a 53-year-old Wayland man, at a nearby residence.
While speaking with the driver, troopers detected the smell of alcohol and signs of intoxication. This prompted them to administer a sobriety test and temporarily detain the man for additional and conclusive testing with results pending along with a final report which will be submitted to the prosecutor’s office for operating while intoxicated causing serious injury charges.
The driver of the Honda minivan, a 63-year-old Byron Center woman, suffered minor injuries. Her passengers, four young children from the Wayland area, were all transported to Devos Children’s Hospital. While three of them were treated and released, one remains in intensive care with serious injuries.
Authorities say the driver and all the children were wearing proper seatbelts.
The incident remains open pending further investigation and prosecutor’s review.
