Marshella Chidester, 66, faces second-degree murder charges after allegedly driving into a children’s birthday party in Newport, Michigan, killing two siblings and injuring several others. On April 20, Chidester crashed her vehicle into the Swan Creek Boat Club, coming to rest 25 feet inside the building. The victims, 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and her 4-year-old brother Zayn, died from their injuries, while their mother and an 11-year-old brother sustained serious injuries.Witnesses described chaos as the car struck the building, with many attendees in shock. Chidester reportedly had a blood alcohol level of .18, more than double the legal limit. She was arraigned on multiple charges, including two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death. Her attorney argued that she did not intend to kill anyone and suggested a medical condition contributed to the crash.
The family of the victims is pursuing legal action against Chidester and the bar where she allegedly drank prior to the incident. Chidester is scheduled to return to court on April 30.
