Detroit-area police officer charged with manslaughter in crash that killed 2 men
A suburban Detroit police officer has been charged with manslaughter after his patrol car smashed into another vehicle, killing two men
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A suburban Detroit police officer whose patrol car smashed into another vehicle, killing two men, was charged Friday with manslaughter.
Charges against Warren Officer James Burke were filed nearly two months after the 5 a.m. crash.
“Our thoughts remain with those whose lives were impacted by this tragic crash,” Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said. “We hope the conclusion of this investigation begins to bring a sense of closure and healing as they continue to navigate this difficult time.”
Burke, 28, was driving southbound at a “high rate of speed” when his police car struck a Dodge Durango that was turning left at an intersection on Sept. 30, the sheriff's office said.
Cedric Hayden Jr., 34, and longtime pal DeJuan Pettis, 33, were killed. Burke and another officer were injured.
Burke was charged with manslaughter and two misdemeanors. Defense attorney Marc Curtis said Burke is a “highly decorated, highly trained officer” who was working to protect the public when the crash happened.
“This is an unfortunate incident,” Curtis told The Associated Press. “It's a result of actions on both sides. As the facts and circumstances come out around this case, it will help demonstrate why Officer Burke was doing what he did.”
Curtis, who often represents police officers, didn't elaborate.
Burke appeared in 37th District Court and was released without having to post bond.