PONTIAC (WWJ) – A Waterford woman is facing charges for a drunk driving crash that killed a man on a motorcycle, while she had a minor riding in her pickup truck.
Jessica Kellar, 30, was arraigned Thursday on charges of operating while intoxicated causing death and operating while intoxicated with occupant less than 16.
The charges stem from a crash at the intersection of Woodward and Huron Street in Downtown Pontiac on Sept. 15, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities say Kellar was driving the pickup east, as was the 70-year-old victim on the motorcycle, when she allegedly turned left into the bike.
The White Lake man was thrown into the air and then hit, according to the prosecutor’s office. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kellar allegedly had a blood alcohol level over the legal limit, though her specific BAC was not disclosed.
Officials say she also had a minor in the truck with her at the time of the crash, but their age and relation to Kellar was not released.
“Driving while under the influence of any substance endangers public safety and is potentially deadly, as in this case,” stated Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “No one should be operating a vehicle while intoxicated and those who choose to do so will be held accountable.”
Bond was set at $25,000 cash/surety or 10% following her arraignment. She was ordered to wear an alcohol tether and she cannot drive or enter any place that serves or dispenses alcohol.
Her next court date is scheduled for Nov. 21.
OWI causing death is a felony that carries a punishment of up to 15 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine. OWI with a minor inside the car s a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine.