Highland Township Deputy and resident doing fine after hit and run

Highland Twp, MI (WJBK) - A Deputy was traveling southbound on Milford Rd. near Wardlow Rd in Highland Township, when his patrol vehicle was hit from behind by a 2002 Chevrolet Malibu.  The Deputy had been traveling approximately 40 mph when the crash occurred.  

After the initial impact the vehicle responsible fled and made a U-turn to go northbound on Milford Rd.  Although the Deputy's vehicle was damaged, he was able to pursue the responsible vehicle northbound on Milford Rd.

The Deputy lost sight of the responsible vehicle as it turned into the Highland Greens Mobile Home Community less than a mile away. The vehicle was located by the Deputy on Mead Blvd. near Loch LoMond Drive by following a fluid trail from the suspect vehicle to where it had left the roadway and struck a residence.  The responsible vehicle became disabled and was lodged inside of the residence.

The responsible driver, a 37-year-old male had a strong smell of alcohol and bloodshot eyes. He was taken into custody by the Deputy.  The Deputy then made a forced entry into the residence, to assist Evonne Beech, a 76-year- old resident who had been thrown out of her chair by the impact and was on the floor. 

Victims niece Shanna Gibson is relieved her aunt is doing fine.

"It was heartbreaking because that's where her bed is, by the window. I thought for sure she was gone," she said.

The Highland Township Fire Department and Paramedics from Star EMS responded to the scene. The Deputy and the resident were both treated for injuries. Both were subsequently transported to McLaren Hospital - Oakland and have both been released.

The responsible driver was transported to McLaren Hospital - Oakland where a blood draw was performed.  The blood sample was forwarded to the Forensic Lab, where results are pending. 

The driver was sent to Oakland County Jail pending charges. Detectives are continuing with the investigation.