Midland County teenager charged with killing friend in drunken crash

MIDLAND, MI — A 19-year-old man has been charged with killing a friend in a drunken car crash in rural Midland County.

At approximately 1 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, sheriff's officers responded to the scene of a single-vehicle crash near the intersection of West Chippewa River and South Magruder Roads in Greendale Township.

Officers determined that Ashtin O. Richardson was traveling west in his 2012 Chevrolet Silverado when he failed to negotiate a curve, left the road, and struck a utility pole and some trees.

Richardson's passenger, 19-year-old Brody Curtis, suffered serious injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. Richardson suffered minor injuries, which he received treatment for at the scene.

Both Richardson and Curtis are from Lee Township.

Because evidence suggested alcohol and speed played a role in the crash, officers arrested Richardson. After spending two nights in jail, Richardson appeared in Midland County District Court on the afternoon of August 19 to be arraigned on a charge of driving while under the influence causing death, a felony punishable by 15 years in prison.

Richardson's bail was set at $250,000, or 10%, and if he posts it, he will be barred from consuming alcohol or drugs, must wear a breathalyzer leash, and must undergo regular testing.

As of Tuesday morning, Richardson remains in prison.

Richardson is scheduled to appear for a preliminary examination on September 10.