Marshella Marie Chidester, 67, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder and multiple counts related to operating a vehicle while intoxicated after crashing her car into a building during a child's birthday party, resulting in the deaths of two siblings and injuries to several others. Chidester's blood alcohol content was reported at 0.18, more than twice the legal limit in Michigan, had Gabapentin in her blood, and witnesses described the scene as chaotic with many injured attendees. Her defense attorney claims that Chidester suffers from seizures that may have impaired her driving ability and argues that her BAC results could have been compromised. The trial began on March 3, 2025, with jury selection completed; prosecutors are focusing on establishing Chidester's intoxication through witness testimonies and expert evidence. Eyewitness accounts and video footage are expected to play a significant role in the prosecution's case against Chidester.
No, I'm good.
… wouldn't want to be driving.
Marshella Chidester. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, 9 x 12 Open End Envelope - Brown Kraft 28lb. N.p. N.d. Content unknown. SEALED.
On April 20, 2024, Marshella Marie Chidester, a 67-year-old woman from Newport, Michigan, drove her SUV into the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township during a child's birthday party, killing two young siblings and injuring several others. Chidester was found guilty on multiple charges, including second-degree murder and operating while intoxicated causing death. Her sentencing is scheduled for May 15, 2025.
Tragedy at the Swan Boat Club: The Marshella Chidester Case
Basic Information:
Marshella Marie Chidester, born in 1957 in Newport, Michigan, is currently incarcerated at the Monroe County Jail, awaiting sentencing. She was convicted on nine charges: two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and five counts of operating while intoxicated causing serious injury.
Background:
Chidester was a long-time resident of Newport, Michigan, and had previously served as the commodore of the Swan Boat Club. She had no prior criminal record and was known in her community. Details about her early life, education, and employment history are limited in public records.
Criminal Activity:
On April 20, 2024, Chidester drove her SUV into the Swan Boat Club during a child's birthday party, crashing approximately 25 feet into the building. The incident resulted in the deaths of 8-year-old Alanah Phillips and her 4-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips. Fifteen other individuals sustained injuries, some critical. Investigations revealed that Chidester had a blood alcohol content of 0.18, more than twice the legal limit. Surveillance footage showed her consuming wine at home shortly before the crash.
Legal Proceedings:
Chidester was arrested at the scene and later charged with multiple offenses, including second-degree murder and operating while intoxicated causing death. Her trial commenced in March 2025, and after a four-day proceeding, the jury found her guilty on all counts. Her sentencing is scheduled for May 15, 2025. Chidester has since changed legal representation and plans to appeal the conviction.
The crash had a profound impact on the victims' families and the community. The Phillips family suffered the loss of two children and injuries to other family members. The incident sparked discussions on drunk driving and community safety. Public and media reactions were intense, with widespread coverage and calls for stricter enforcement of DUI laws.
Current Status:
Chidester remains incarcerated at the Monroe County Jail, awaiting sentencing. Her legal team has indicated plans to appeal the conviction. There is no public information regarding rehabilitation efforts.
Conclusion:
The case of Marshella Chidester serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of impaired driving. It underscores the importance of community awareness and the enforcement of laws to prevent such tragedies.
Additional Note:
Given the notoriety of the case, any autographed items by Marshella Chidester may be considered rare and could hold value for collectors.
VIDEO: Marshella Chidester Video of Birthday Party Crash | https://youtu.be/6X9iE0E2qd0
VIDEO: Prosecutor gives closing arguments in Marshella Chidester trial | https://youtu.be/p_67YZRDh9E
VIDEO: Swan Boat Club crash: Marshella Chidester guilty of all charges | https://youtu.be/Rg6gvaEeT0U
Archiving Protocol:
• Handled with White Gloves ab initio
• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load
• White Backing Board – Acid Free
Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker that the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.
Archiving Protocol:
• Handled with White Gloves ab initio
• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load
• White Backing Board – Acid Free
Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker than the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.