Detroit Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect Arrested
Detroit Fatal Hit-and-Run Suspect Arrested in connection with last month’s tragic crash that claimed a young woman’s life and left her companion hospitalized, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
Detroit police announced that, thanks to crucial tips from community members and surveillance footage provided by nearby businesses, officers were able to locate and apprehend the individual believed responsible. The arrest took place on May 1, and formal charges were filed against the suspect two days later, on May 3.
The deadly collision occurred on April 19 at the busy intersection of Gratiot Avenue and East Grand Boulevard. According to the Detroit Police Department, the victims—identified by family members as 24-year-old Juan Smiley and her boyfriend, 26-year-old D’Joran James—were riding electric scooters eastbound on East Grand Boulevard when a vehicle traveling southbound on Gratiot struck them. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, but tragically Smiley succumbed to her injuries at the scene. James was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
Investigators emphasize that hit-and-run incidents not only devastate families but also undermine public safety, making community cooperation vital. In this case, several local businesses — including a convenience store and a hardware shop — reviewed their security camera archives at police request, ultimately capturing the suspect’s vehicle in the moments before and after impact. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who came forward,” said Det. Maria Thompson. “Their willingness to share footage and information was instrumental in bringing the person responsible to justice.”
James, still recovering in hospital, offered words of forgiveness toward the end of the week. “Although this tragedy has upended my life, I forgive you, and I hold no grudges in my heart,” he said in a brief statement released by his family. “As I pray for myself, Juan’s family and friends, I extend my prayers to you, too.”
The legal repercussions for leaving the scene of a fatal accident are severe in Michigan. Under state law, a hit-and-run causing death carries a felony charge of fleeing or eluding police resulting in death, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and significant fines. Beyond criminal penalties, surviving victims and bereaved families may pursue civil claims for damages, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.
At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the profound physical, emotional, and financial toll that such collisions impose. Our team has extensive experience representing both wrongful-death plaintiffs and injured survivors in hit-and-run cases.
We work tirelessly to secure maximum compensation, partnering with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and vocational evaluators to build a robust case on your behalf. Whether it involves negotiating with insurance companies or advocating fiercely in court, we are committed to standing by our clients every step of the way, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices heard.
As the suspect now awaits extradition and arraignment, Detroit police continue to investigate the precise circumstances leading up to the collision. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Detroit Police Department’s Hit-and-Run Unit.
Call us for a free and confidential case evaluation. We are available by phone, text, and online chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Please notify Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC for corrections if you identify any inaccuracies. Posts will be removed upon request.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident.
