Charges Filed in Fatal Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Crash in Pontiac
PONTIAC, MI — A 36-year-old woman has been charged following a fatal hit-and-run motorcycle collision on September 1. Authorities identified Leeann Jean Darling of Pontiac as the driver involved in the incident, which occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. at Woodward Avenue and Perry Street.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Darling faces multiple charges: failing to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in death, operating a motor vehicle while license suspended, and operating a vehicle while license suspended causing serious injury. Bond was set at $750,000 during her court arraignment on Saturday in 50th District Court. A probable cause conference is scheduled for October 14.
Motorcycle rider Jack Leverne Turnblom sustained critical injuries and later died at a hospital. His passenger, who also was not wearing a helmet, was hospitalized but has since been released.
Witnesses reported that a 2010 GMC Terrain disregarded a red light on northbound Perry Street and struck the motorcycle. The driver exited the vehicle and fled the scene. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit identified Darling as a suspect, and she turned herself in on October 1.
Darling is currently held at the Oakland County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing.