Petersburg, MI - Pregnant Woman Killed in Crash on US-23 Near Consear Rd

Petersburg, MI (May 19, 2025) – A tragic crash late Sunday night, May 18, claimed the life of a 32-year-old woman and her unborn child in Monroe County.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 10:01 p.m. to the scene of a crash on US-23 near Consear Road. Investigators say a Chrysler 300, driven by a 24-year-old man from Oregon, Ohio, had been speeding on the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle then swerved into the right lane, attempting to pass a Ford Escape.

The Chrysler struck the Escape, forcing it off the road. The Escape rolled several times before landing on its side in an embankment. Emergency crews arrived to find the victim trapped inside. She was extricated and rushed to a Toledo hospital, where she later died. Authorities confirmed the woman was seven months pregnant at the time.

The man who caused the crash fled the scene on foot. Deputies later found him at a nearby Pilot gas station on US-223, where he was taken into custody. Investigators believe both speed and alcohol played roles in the crash. The driver is expected to face charges including two counts of second-degree homicide and two counts of OWI causing death. The case remains under investigation.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the victim during this difficult time.

Car Accidents in Michigan

Here in Michigan, fatal car crashes involving impaired or reckless driving remain a pressing issue. According to state data, over 1,100 traffic fatalities were reported in a recent year, with hundreds involving alcohol. These tragedies often leave families grieving for lives taken far too soon. Holding negligent drivers accountable is an important step toward justice and preventing future loss.

In the wake of such a tragic crash, it’s important to understand the different aspects of wrongful death claims:

• Eligibility to File: In Michigan, immediate family members such as spouses, children, or parents may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This allows them to seek compensation for their emotional and financial losses.
• Compensable Damages: Damages may include funeral costs, medical bills, pain and suffering, lost future income, and loss of companionship. Every case is unique and should be reviewed by a legal professional.
• Investigation and Evidence: Gathering strong evidence—such as accident reports, toxicology tests, and eyewitness accounts—is essential to building a successful claim.
• Criminal vs. Civil Cases: Even if criminal charges are filed, families can still pursue civil claims for wrongful death. These proceedings are separate and can move forward at the same time.
• Legal Deadlines: Michigan law imposes time limits for filing wrongful death claims. Failing to file within that window can result in loss of the right to recover damages.

If you’ve lost someone due to someone else's reckless actions, contact a wrongful death attorney to understand how to move forward with a wrongful death claim.

It’s critical to speak with one of our Petersburg car accident attorneys as soon as possible following a fatal crash. Quick legal action ensures critical evidence is preserved and gives families a voice during one of the hardest times in their lives.

At Christopher Trainor & Associates, we offer free consultations to families who have suffered unimaginable loss. We have decades of experience handling wrongful death and serious injury cases throughout Michigan. Our team is known for securing over $250 million in verdicts and settlements and standing up for those who need support the most. If you're seeking a catastrophic personal injury attorney who will listen, fight, and deliver results, we’re here for you. We understand the stakes and treat every client with the care they deserve. Call us at (248) 886-8650 to talk about how we can help you and your family.

Note: Our firm utilized outside sources when creating this post. We have not independently verified the facts regarding this accident. If you find information that is incorrect, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates immediately so that we correct the post to reflect the most accurate information available about the accident. This post can be removed upon request.  

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. The photograph used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. This post is not a solicitation for business.