State Trooper Charged With Misdemeanor in Fatal Crash Involving Semi

by Transportaion Nation Transportation Nation Network

Clinton County, MI – A Michigan State Police (MSP) trooper deemed to be at-fault in a fatal three-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck earlier this year has been charged with a misdemeanor.

Investigators determined MSP trooper, 22-year-old Brian Wiles, caused a deadly crash at the intersection of Business 127 and Cutler Road in Dewitt Township on Friday, July 19, that resulted in the death of 26-year-old motorist David G. Engel of Dewitt.

The crash occurred at approximately 8 p.m. as Wiles was en route to a robbery in progress at a local retail store.

Investigators say Wiles was westbound on Cutler Road with lights and siren engaged when he entered the intersection and struck the rear of a semi-truck that was traveling northbound on Business 127.

The impact of the collision caused the semi to strike Engel’s passenger vehicle which was stopped southbound on Business 127, waiting to turn left on Cutler Road.

Engel was pronounced dead at the scene.

The semi-truck driver did not report any injuries, while Wiles reported only minor injuries.

In the days immediately following the crash, MSP announced Wiles had been placed on suspension while authorities conducted a thorough investigation.

MSP 1st Lt. Darren Green promised an expeditious investigation and authorities would then turn those findings over to the Clinton County Prosecutor’s Office for consideration of possible criminal charges.

On Monday, the resulting charges were disclosed through Wiles’s attorney, Patrick O’Keefe.

According to multiple local media interviews, O’Keefe said his client has been charged with a moving violation causing death.

The offense is a misdemeanor carrying with it the possibility of up to one year in jail.

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Local outlet WILX reported O’Keefe referred to the accident as “an incredible tragedy,” and expressed Wiles is remorseful.

“He’s certainly looking forward to having this matter resolved – not just for his own sake, but for the sake of decedent’s family,” O’Keefe said.

According to state records, Wiles joined the force in 2018.

An MSP spokesperson, Shanon Banner, confirmed Wiles remains under suspension and the department intends to conduct an internal review of Wiles following the criminal investigation.