Macomb County man could serve up to 60 years behind bars for conviction in 2021 drunk driving crash that killed Hamtramck bar owner

MOUNT CLEMENS (WWJ) - A Macomb County man on his third DUI offense will spend a minimum of 29 years behind bars after he crashed his vehicle into a motorcycle while highly intoxicated, killing a beloved bar owner and critically injured his wife, back in 2021.

42-year-old Eric Compton of Eastpointe was sentenced by a Macomb County Circuit Court judge this week for his conviction in the fatal incident that occurred on Wednesday, August 15, 2021.

According to police, Compton was driving under the influence of alcohol when he drove his vehicle through a stop sign and slammed into a motorcycle with two passengers, identified as Brad Ruff and his wife, Patti.

Ruff was pronounced dead at the scene and his wife was critically injured. Ruff was the longtime owner of Kelly's Bar in Hamtramck.

One of the passengers was pronounced dead at the scene while the other passenger sustained critical injuries.

Compton fled from the scene but was eventually arrested by police.

On Nov. 20, 2023, a Macomb County jury found Compton guilty of Operating a Motor Vehicle with a High BAC Causing Death with a Prior Conviction, a 20-year felony, and Operating a Motor Vehicle with a High BAC Causing Serious Injury with a Prior Conviction, a 10-year felony.

Compton was sentenced on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2024. Macomb County Circuit Court Judge Diane Druzinski handed down a 20-40 year sentence and a 9-20 year sentence on each respective charge.

Compton was sentenced as a habitual third offender, the prosecutor's office added.

"As a prosecutor, it's my duty to ensure justice is served for those whose lives have been tragically cut short by reckless actions. This sends a clear message that drunk driving will not be tolerated in Macomb County. We are committed to keeping our streets safer for everyone," said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido in a prepared statement.