NOVI (WWJ) -- Two Oakland County teenagers are facing criminal charges for a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed a 13-year-old Commerce Township girl.
Deputies on Friday arrested a 15-year-old driver from West Bloomfield, according to the the Oakland County Sheriff's Office, in connection with the crash that also injured five other people.
Investigators said the teen did not have a drivers license, but was driving a 2023 Jeep Gladiator and trying to get away from police on the evening of March 22, when he crashed into two other cars at Maple and Decker Roads.
The driver's name is being withheld because he's a juvenile.
A 19-year old passenger in the Jeep, identified as Gavin Anthony Kassab of Commerce Township, was also charged and arraigned in 52-1 District Court in Novi.
Officials said Kassab was used his phone to shoot video as they fled from police, and was also encouraging the driver to keep going. After the Jeep ran a red light and crashed into two other vehicles, police said, the teens jumped out of the vehicle and ran away.
Both young men are facing one felony count of first-degree fleeing and eluding a police officer, as well as a misdemeanor count of leaving the scene of an accident.
Kassab is being held in the Oakland County Jail on a $250,000 bond.
Officials said Friday that the 13-year old victim's mother and 10-year-old sister, who were seriously injured in the incident, continue to recover.
Three other people, including another 10-year-old child, who were in other vehicles involved in the wreck allegedly caused by the defendants suffered minor injuries.
“This was a horrific and completely preventable tragedy and both individuals should be held fully accountable,” Sheriff Mike Bouchard said, in a statement. “I am proud of all the work our team did building this case, even including DNA evidence.”
Both young men charged could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted in this case.
If Kassab is able to post bond, he must wear a GPS tether, submit to alcohol and random drug testing, and have no contact with the victim’s family or any witnesses.
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