(WWJ) – A Detroit teenager who allegedly caused a crash that killed a pregnant mother and injured her husband and young son while fleeing police in Sterling Heights has been charged as an adult.
The 16-year-old was arraigned on multiple felonies, including second-degree murder and gross negligence causing death of a fetus. If convicted of second-degree murder, he could face life in prison.
The charges stem from a crash on Saturday, Aug. 12 in the area of Van Dyke and Metro Parkway. Police officials say the teen fled a “routine traffic stop” at Van Dyke and 15 Mile.
As the teen allegedly drove recklessly in an attempt to escape police, he ran a red light at 16 Mile and Van Dyke, slamming into an SUV carrying the Gumma family.
Faith Gumma, 31, and her unborn child were pronounced dead at the hospital, while her 34-year-old husband, Norman, and their 2-year-old son were injured.
Norman Gumma remains in critical condition, while the 2-year-old has been released from the hospital. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with funeral costs and medical expenses.
The teen was uninjured in the crash.
The teen suspect, whose name has not been released, has also been charged with first-degree fleeing and eluding and two counts of reckless driving causing serious injury. Bond was set at $500,000 cash/surety, 10%. He would be ordered to wear a GPS tether upon release.
His next court date is scheduled for Aug. 31.
“This young man's decision to evade a routine traffic stop has left an overwhelming loss. His actions not only shattered a family but also eroded the community's sense of security. Our office will always tirelessly pursue justice for the families who have to live with these unnecessary, tragic events. This reminds us all that every choice we make carries consequences that go far beyond the moment,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said per a press release.
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