School Crossing Guard Dies After Being Hit By Car

MOUNT CLEMENS, MI — An elementary school crossing guard who served the community by being a friendly and familiar face for schoolchildren has died after being hit by a car, according to police and now the driver — who initially fled the scene — is facing charges. The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office said 57-year-old Angeles White, of Lenox Township, died as a result of her injuries from the early morning accident that took place in March as White directed traffic in the area of Cass Avenue near South Rose Street in Mount Clemens.

Police investigated the incident and charged the driver, 51-year-old Kathleen Vuylsteke, of Mount Clemens, with one count of failure to stop at the scene of a serious accident (a five-year felony) and one count of moving violation causing death (a one-year misdemeanor).

“Ms. White greeted students, parents, and passersby on Cass Ave. with a smile and wave every morning. Her death is a loss felt by many,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Eric Smith. “It is my mission to see that justice is done, and the defendant is held accountable for her actions.”

Vuylsteke was reportedly traveling eastbound on Cass Ave. in a 2003 maroon Dodge Caravan when she struck White, who was working as a crossing guard for Prevail Academy. After striking White, Vuylsteke continued to travel eastbound on Cass Ave. Witnesses to this incident attempted to block Vuylsteke’s vehicle and followed her as she continued to travel around them. Vuylsteke did return to the scene a short time later and was cooperative with deputies, police said.

“We are thankful our community came together and provided us with valuable information to make sure our investigation was thorough,” said Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham. “The case presented to the Prosecutor’s Office will be strong and will hold the defendant accountable for her actions.”

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