Westland man charged after I-94 crash killed three in Dearborn
A 26-year-old Westland man has been charged with six felonies after prosecutors said he drove intoxicated at high speed and crashed into a semi-truck on I-94 in Dearborn, killing three passengers in his car.
Hilton Dorian Yopp III faces three counts of operating while intoxicated causing death and three counts of reckless driving causing death. The victims were Myles Bland, 27, of Dearborn, and Jailyn Riley and Alexandria Boynton, both 24 and from Detroit, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office said.
Michigan State Police responded shortly before midnight July 3 to eastbound I-94 near Wyoming Avenue. Prosecutors allege Yopp struck the rear of the semi-truck while driving recklessly at a high rate of speed. MSP's initial report said the semi had stopped in traffic because of freeway flooding near Michigan Avenue.
Troopers found the three victims in and around Yopp's vehicle. Yopp and the semi-truck driver were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Yopp was arraigned July 7 before Judge Sam Salamey in 19th District Court. He received a $200,000 bond with 10% allowed and GPS monitoring if released. He may not drive or consume alcohol while on bond. A probable cause conference was scheduled for July 15, followed by a preliminary examination July 22.
Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, according to the prosecutor. The charges are allegations, and Yopp is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Legal Questions: Criminal Charges and Civil Claims Are Separate
The criminal case does not decide the families' separate civil or insurance rights. Michigan No-Fault survivor's loss benefits may be available under MCL 500.3108, while a wrongful-death action under MCL 600.2922 depends on evidence that a wrongful act, neglect, or fault caused the deaths.
Those claims have their own evidence and deadlines, and the criminal case does not stop civil statutes of limitations. Michigan Legal Center has more information about Michigan drunk driving crash claims and Michigan wrongful death deadlines.
Get Help From Michigan Legal Center
Michigan Legal Center, the Law Offices of Christopher J. Trainor & Associates, helps families review No-Fault survivor benefits and wrongful-death claims after fatal crashes. Call (248) 886-8650 or contact us for a free consultation.
There is no attorney fee unless money is recovered. Costs and fee terms follow the written agreement.