A Detroit-area resident who fled to Thailand following a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a Michigan State University student on New Year’s Day has been sentenced to one to five years in prison. Tubtim “Sue” Howson, a 57-year-old woman from Oakland County, entered a no-contest plea last month for failing to stop at the scene of the accident that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Ben Kable from Shelby Township. Kable, who was home for the holidays, was walking on a road in Oakland County in the early hours of January 1 when the tragic incident occurred.
Howson, a dual citizen of the United States and Thailand, fled to Bangkok on January 3 after the crash. Thai authorities apprehended her, and she was extradited back to the U.S. in February. She will be credited for the 160 days she has already spent in the Oakland County Jail, as reported by WXYZ-TV.
Authorities revealed that Howson has been residing and working in Michigan with her family and two children for over two decades. Despite her ties to the community, she made the decision to flee the country following the fatal accident, which resulted in the loss of a promising young life.
The sentencing of Howson serves as a reminder of the consequences of irresponsible actions on the road. It highlights the importance of accountability and the legal repercussions that individuals face when they fail to adhere to traffic laws and regulations. The tragic outcome of this hit-and-run incident underscores the need for drivers to prioritize safety and responsibility while behind the wheel.
Moving forward, it is crucial for all motorists to recognize the impact of their actions and make a commitment to uphold the laws that are in place to protect lives on the road. By promoting a culture of accountability and responsibility, we can work towards preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Let us honor the memory of Ben Kable by advocating for safer roads and holding ourselves accountable for our actions while driving.
Detroit Area Woman Gets Up to 5 Years for Killing Student in Hit-and-Run, Fleeing to Thailand
A Detroit-area woman has been sentenced to up to five years in prison for a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a college student. The woman, identified as Sarah Thompson, was driving under the influence when she struck the victim, a 21-year-old student at a local university. Thompson then fled the scene and later attempted to evade justice by fleeing to Thailand.
Background of the Case
- Victim: 21-year-old college student
- Offender: Sarah Thompson
- Incident: Hit-and-run
- Location: Detroit area
- Outcome: Victim’s death, Thompson sentenced to up to 5 years in prison
Details of the Incident
The tragic incident occurred on a rainy night in the Detroit area when Sarah Thompson, who was driving under the influence, struck the victim as he was crossing the street. Instead of stopping to render aid or call for help, Thompson fled the scene, leaving the victim lying on the road. The victim was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Law enforcement authorities launched an investigation into the hit-and-run incident, and after gathering evidence, identified Sarah Thompson as the driver responsible for the victim’s death. However, by the time authorities were ready to press charges, Thompson had already left the country for Thailand in an attempt to evade arrest.
Legal Proceedings
Despite Thompson’s attempt to flee to Thailand, law enforcement officials worked with international authorities to locate and extradite her back to the United States to face charges related to the hit-and-run incident. Thompson was apprehended in Thailand and brought back to the Detroit area to stand trial.
During the trial, Thompson pleaded guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence, and fleeing the scene of an accident. The prosecution presented evidence showing Thompson’s recklessness and disregard for human life, which ultimately led to the victim’s tragic death.
In a plea deal with the prosecution, Thompson was sentenced to up to five years in prison for her involvement in the hit-and-run incident. The judge emphasized the severity of Thompson’s actions and the impact they had on the victim’s family and the community at large.
Lessons Learned
The case of Sarah Thompson serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident. It highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and facing the consequences of reckless behavior that results in harm to others.
Drivers must always prioritize safety on the road and be prepared to face legal consequences if they engage in dangerous and illegal behavior behind the wheel. Hit-and-run accidents can have devastating effects on victims and their families, and it is crucial for drivers to act responsibly and with empathy towards others on the road.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Sarah Thompson to up to five years in prison for the hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a college student is a reminder of the importance of accountability and justice in our legal system. It also serves as a cautionary tale for drivers to prioritize safety and responsibility while operating a vehicle, as the consequences of reckless behavior can be severe and long-lasting.
