Woman Sentenced for Deadly Crash at Monroe County Birthday Party
A Michigan woman has received a significant prison sentence for her role in a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of two young children during a birthday celebration at the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County. Marshella Chidester, aged 67, was sentenced on Thursday to a prison term ranging from 25 to 50 years following her conviction for second-degree murder and several charges related to operating a vehicle while intoxicated.
Trial Details and Outcome
In March, Chidester was found guilty on multiple counts, including:
- Second-degree murder
- Two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death
- Five counts of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury
The incident occurred on April 20, 2024, when Chidester drove her vehicle into the Swan Boat Club, crashing into a gathering where children were celebrating a birthday. Among the victims were 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and her 4-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips, both students at Flat Rock Community Schools.
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Chidester’s blood alcohol content was 0.18, significantly above Michigan’s legal limit of 0.08. Defense attorneys questioned the legitimacy of the blood test conducted on the day of the crash. Despite the defense’s claims, the jury took only two hours to deliberate before reaching a guilty verdict.
Sentence and Reaction
Monroe County Circuit Court Judge Daniel White presided over the case, where emotions ran high both inside and outside the courtroom. The sheriff’s office had expressed deep concern during a public vigil held for the victims, highlighting the impact this incident had on the Monroe County community.
Chidester’s conviction came with severe penalties, considering that the second-degree murder charge could have carried a life sentence. The two counts for operating while intoxicated and causing death could see her face up to 15 years in prison, while the other counts of causing serious injury could add significant time as well. The total potential penalties for all charges could reach several decades behind bars.
Community Impact
The devastating event has not only affected the families of the victims but also the local community, which came together to mourn the loss of the two children. Community vigils showcased a strong display of support for the Phillips family, illustrating the communal grief and desire for justice.
Next Steps
Chidester has changed her legal representation shortly following her conviction, moving from her trial attorney, Bill Colovos, to James Warren Amberg. Colovos has indicated that he expects an appeal to be filed, suggesting that the legal battle over this case may continue for some time.
Charges and Potential Sentences Overview
| Charge | Max Sentence | Max Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Second-degree murder | Life imprisonment | N/A |
| Operating while intoxicated causing death | Up to 15 years | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Operating while intoxicated causing serious injury | Up to 5 years per count | $1,000 – $5,000 |
As the community processes the aftermath of this tragic event, the focus will now shift to the implications of the legal proceedings and the enduring effects on those most affected by this heartbreak.
