Michigan Woman Guilty of Murder in Birthday Party Crash That Killed Two Children

MONROE, Mich. (AP) — Marshella Chidester, a 67-year-old woman, was found guilty Thursday of second-degree murder and multiple charges related to a drunk driving incident that killed two young children during a birthday party at the Swan Boat Club last year. The jury reached the verdict after deliberating for less than two hours on March 6, 2025.

The fatal crash occurred on April 20, 2024, when Chidester drove her SUV into the birthday party, resulting in the deaths of siblings Zayn, 4, and Alanah Phillips, 8. Numerous others sustained injuries. Chidester’s blood alcohol level was reported to be more than twice the legal limit for driving.

During the trial, which began on March 3, evidence was presented showing Chidester’s vehicle traveling at 44 mph (71 kph) shortly before the crash. Security footage captured the vehicle hitting the boat club near Lake Erie. “It was any kid’s dream birthday party,” an adult guest, Diane Medina, shared with the jury. “It was just magical.”

Prosecutors played a video that appeared to show Chidester consuming wine earlier that day, as her residence was located just about 500 feet from the Swan Boat Club. Assistant prosecutor Ken Laurain pointed out to jurors that all evidence suggested Chidester consumed multiple drinks at Verna’s Tavern prior to the incident.

Defense attorney Bill Colovos argued that Chidester only had a single glass of wine with her meal and claimed a pre-existing leg condition caused her to unintentionally accelerate. “In America, in Michigan, you’re allowed to have a glass of wine,” he stated.

The emotional testimony from Mariah Dodds, the children’s mother, brought tears to many in the courtroom. She recounted how her last memory was buying a cake pop for her children and how she awoke in the hospital to hear of their tragic fate.

“I freaked out because it hit me. ‘Where’re my kids at?’” Dodds said. Her surviving son, Jayden, suffered multiple broken bones and was unable to walk for months after the crash.

Chidester is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison. The case had wide-ranging impacts, with many witnesses expressing ongoing emotional trauma. Sheriff Troy Goodnough described the scene upon arrival as “extremely chaotic.” The prosecution included videos showing Chidester’s activities immediately preceding the crash, including an incident where she reportedly collided with her neighbor’s truck.