Macomb Co. Woman Was Using Phone When She Ran A Red Light And Caused A Deadly Crash: Cops

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, MI — A Macomb County woman is facing charges in connection with a deadly crash that she caused because she was distracted by her cellphone, according to the Macomb County Sheriff's Office.

The crash happened at 9:33 a.m. Feb. 2 at the intersection of 32 Mile Road and Michigan 53 in Washington Township, according to sheriff officials.

A 27-year-old woman from Riley was driving a car south on Michigan 53 where she drove through a red light and crashed into a car that was going west through a green light on 32 Mile Road, according to sheriff officials.

The passenger of the car had to be extricated from the wreckage and taken to a nearby hospital where she later died, according to sheriff officials.

The 27-year-old "at-fault" driver was taken to a nearby hospital where she was treated for injuries and released two days later, according to sheriff officials.

Officials said she admitted to being "physically connected" to her phone and using the phone's GPS while driving.

The Riley woman was charged with reckless driving causing death, which is a 15-year felony. Her next court date was not immediately scheduled.

"This tragedy could have been prevented had the suspect not been engaged in activity on her phone," Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said. "Once again, I encourage everyone to please put your phone down while driving. Focus on the road. Follow the law and remain hands-free while driving."