Man Charged With Killing 3-Year-Old Girl In Cedar Springs After Crash At Mobile Home Park
Daniel Bryant faces two felony charges after a pickup truck struck and killed 3-year-old Estella Marie Johnson at a Cedar Springs mobile home park. The child's mother's fiancé is being held on a $500,000 bond.
Fiancé's Pickup Hit Toddler at Mobile Home Park, Driver Faces Reckless Driving and Child Abuse Charges
CEDAR SPRINGS, Mich. — A 33-year-old man has been charged with killing a 3-year-old girl after a pickup truck struck her at a mobile home park, authorities said Monday.
Daniel Richard Bryant faces two felony charges in connection with the death of Estella Marie Johnson on April 3. He is being held in Kent County jail pending a $500,000 cash or surety bond.
Bryant was the fiancé of the child's mother and described as a father figure, the Kent County Sheriff's Office said.
What Happened
According to a probable cause document filed in the case, Bryant told deputies at the scene that he was driving back from a family member's home in Northland Estates Mobile Home Park with the child's brother.
He told investigators that the 3-year-old liked to run alongside and race him in his truck. Bryant said he was racing with Estella when the fatal incident occurred, he told investigators.
As he was driving, Bryant said the child's brother told him to stop. That's when Bryant said he realized Estella was under the truck. He said the child suddenly "ran under the truck," according to the probable cause affidavit.
Bryant estimated he was driving around 10 mph at the time. However, a sergeant at the scene saw what appeared to be recent acceleration tire marks in front of the home.
Alcohol May Be Factor
The sergeant at the scene also told deputies that he observed Bryant "is an alcoholic and consumes a half gallon of alcohol daily."
Investigators said alcohol may have been a factor in the crash.
Court records show Bryant pleaded guilty to driving recklessly in Kent County for an offense in 2020.
Community Responds
A fundraiser supporting the child's family has raised more than $20,000 for funeral arrangements.
Though her time on earth was far too short, Estella's life was filled with a light and love that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She was deeply loved and brought immense joy to everyone around her, the obituary reads.
Next Court Date
Bryant's preliminary examination is scheduled for April 22 at 9:30 a.m. in 63rd District Court.
The charges against him are:
- Reckless driving causing death — a 15-year felony
- Second-degree child abuse — a 10-year felony
Sources
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