Erica Smith dies, alleged DUI driver strikes pedestrians in Detroit

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Erica Smith dies, alleged DUI driver strikes pedestrians in Detroit

DETROIT, MI (June 28, 2026) — Two pedestrians were killed early Sunday after they were struck by an alleged intoxicated driver on Detroit’s west side, according to the Detroit Police Department.

Police said 43-year-old Erica Smith and a 51-year-old Detroit man were found in the roadway at the intersection of W. McNichols Road and Ardmore Street at approximately 2:16 a.m. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities said the suspected driver was also found lying in the roadway and was transported to a hospital for treatment. Investigators determined that the 29-year-old Detroit man was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the collision.

The suspect has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and two counts of reckless driving causing death.

Police also said the man refused a blood alcohol test and was remanded to jail following his arraignment.

The Detroit Police Department continues to investigate the fatal crash.


DUI ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Impaired drivers continue to pose a significant threat to everyone on the road and can cause tragic, preventable loss of life.

“Drunken and drugged drivers are subject to criminal charges following an accident or collision that causes harm or kills another person,” explained Candice Bond, a Managing Partner at Bond Legal.

She added, “Separate from criminal charges, a victim’s family may be entitled to compensation through a civil lawsuit against the responsible party.”

According to the National Safety Council, 10 percent of all fatal automobile accidents are caused by drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other medications. These accidents are the second-leading cause of automobile fatalities in this country.


WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Pending the investigation, the victim’s family may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident such as this.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death attorney will stay informed about the official investigation and help ensure that the family’s legal rights and best interests are protected,” Formica added.


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


If your loved one has been killed by a drunken driver and would like a no-cost consultation, please contact our national legal analyst Candice Bond today

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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