FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) -- A mother with six kids in her car was drunk and driving in the wrong direction when she caused a crash that killed her 3-year-old child, according to Farmington Hills Police.
Shelby Symone Ellis, 29, of Inkster was arraigned Monday via video in 47th District Court on one felony count of operating under the influence causing death, and one misdemeanor count of operating under the influence with a child under 16 years old in the vehicle.
Police said Ellis was driving northbound in the southbound lane of Inkster Rd., at 8 Mile Rd., just after 2:30 a.m. Saturday when she crashed into a car driven by a 33-year-old Detroit man.
Ellis was traveling with her six children — ages 10, 7, 5, 3, 18 months and 8 months old.
Police said the 3-year-old child, who was not in a child safety seat and was not wearing a seatbelt, died in the crash.
The mom and the five surviving children were taken by EMS to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other driver also sought medial care, officials said, but he did not need an ambulance.
During the arraignment, a not guilty plea was entered for Ellis and her next court date was scheduled for Sept. 7.
Magistrate Michael Sawicky set a $500,000 personal bond with the several conditions, including that Ellis wear an alcohol tether, that she undergoes random drug and alcohol testing, and that she complies with the Child Protective Services investigation that is now underway.
In considering bond, Sawicky took into account that Ellis, a single mother, has no criminal record. The magistrate noted that this is a "very serious case," but acknowledged that the defendant is dealing with a "personal tragedy."
Ellis' children are now in custody of a grandparent, according to police.
Police Chief Jeff King said, in a statement: “This is an extremely tragic, yet avoidable incident. This should serve as a stark reminder of the importance of utilizing restraint devices and the dangers of operating a vehicle while impaired.”
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