Ashley Marie Monroe, a 35-year-old woman from Perrinton, Michigan, was arraigned on Monday, May 20, 2024, on multiple felony charges following a crash in Watertown Township that resulted in the deaths of two men and injuries to 14 others.
The incident occurred early Saturday evening, May 18, when Monroe, allegedly driving under the influence, struck a group of pedestrians on South Wacousta Road near Corrison Road before fleeing the scene.
Monroe, who is pregnant and a mother of four, was apprehended by police roughly three minutes after the crash. She has been charged with 11 felonies, including two counts of operating while intoxicated (OWI), causing death, six counts of OWI causing serious injury, and multiple counts of failure to stop at the scene when at fault.
During her arraignment, Monroe pleaded not guilty and waived a formal reading of the charges. Clinton County District Court Judge Michael Clarizio set her bond at $1 million, doubling the amount requested by the prosecution.
The crash victims were identified as Johnathan Esch, 30, of Grand Haven, and Daniel Harris, 42, of Grand Ledge. A 38-year-old woman remains in critical condition, while 13 other individuals, ranging in age from two to 61, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The group, mostly family members, was reportedly walking along the road when Monroe’s vehicle struck them.
According to the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe’s vehicle showed damage consistent with the crash, and officers found blood and tissue on her car. In her possession were a mostly empty bottle of Crown Royal and two prescription bottles of anti-depressants. Monroe’s blood alcohol level registered at 0.183, more than twice the legal limit of 0.08.
During the court hearing, Monroe’s attorney emphasized her lack of criminal history and her status as a lifelong Michigan resident. He also highlighted her role as a parent to four children, aged 13, 11, seven, and one. However, the judge underscored the severity of the charges and the need to protect the community by setting a high bond.
Community members have been deeply affected by the tragedy. Debra Plichta, a local resident, expressed the collective grief, stating, “When something like this happens in our community, we all grieve.” The crash has spurred discussions about the need for improved pedestrian safety measures in the area.
The Clinton County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident, with assistance from multiple local law enforcement and emergency services. “With heavy hearts, we pray for all individuals and families affected by this incident. We are here for all of you,” said the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office.
Monroe is scheduled to appear in court again on June 6 for a preliminary examination. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to gather more details about the circumstances leading up to the crash.