A Warren woman faces charges following a hit-and-run on Interstate 696 that resulted in the death of a woman attempting to refuel her vehicle. According to The Detroit News, Meghan Hamilton, 36, has been arraigned on one count of failure to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in serious impairment or death, which carries a potential 5-year prison sentence.
Hamilton, with no prior convictions, pleaded not guilty. She remains held on a $50,000 bond, with conditions including a GPS tether and prohibition against alcohol and drug use, if the bond is posted. As her attorney Adam Gregory Clements puts it, "On behalf of Mrs. Hamilton I would indicate that she has a clear criminal history, and is a dedicated wife and mother of 7 children. She's gainfully employed and has always been a productive member of society." He assured that Hamilton will abide by the criminal justice process, in a statement obtained by The Detroit News.
The tragic incident took place last Sunday morning when 28-year-old Nateria Smith of Madison Heights was struck by an orange/red Chevy SUV while attempting to add gas to her car on the shoulder of the expressway. Smith was subsequently pronounced dead at a local hospital. Witnesses reported seeing the SUV leave the scene without stopping or calling 911, a crucial detail leading to Hamilton's arrest, as reported by CBS Detroit.
Warren Police Department officials later located a vehicle with damage consistent with crash debris at the scene, which led to Hamilton's implication in the incident. "The Warren Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the family of the victim," the department noted, emphasizing drivers' legal obligation to remain at the scene of a crash. The public's assistance was also acknowledged in the investigation of the case, according to an interview with Warren Police provided by Audacy. Future court dates for Hamilton have been set, with a probable cause conference on August 21 and a preliminary exam on August 28.
