Family of Michigan pastor killed by illegal immigrant driver questions release decision

A tragic incident has left a Michigan family seeking answers after their beloved pastor was killed in a crash involving an undocumented driver. Stephen Singleton, a 72-year-old man known for his dedication to community service, died from injuries sustained earlier this month when he was struck by a vehicle while walking near his home.

According to reports, the driver involved in the accident was identified as a Colombian national who had entered the United States illegally. Despite the severity of the situation, authorities decided to release the driver while awaiting a court date, raising questions among the Singleton family. “I had to sit and watch my husband of 53 years die in front of me, and then to know that the person who did this is walking around is very difficult to deal with,” Teri Singleton, Stephen’s wife, expressed in an interview, encapsulating the family’s grief and bewilderment at the circumstances surrounding the driver’s release.

The incident occurred during one of Singleton’s routine morning walks. Witnesses reported that the driver ran a red light, colliding with Singleton, who was wearing a reflective vest and crossing at a marked crosswalk at the time. Despite immediate medical attention that included two craniotomies, he did not survive the extensive injuries, which left him with nearly every bone broken.

In a heartfelt tribute, Ruth, Singleton’s daughter, shared her pain over the loss. “One day, I wake up and just know he’s gone for such a simple and senseless thing. I just don’t understand. I will not be angry because this has happened,” she remarked, emphasizing her desire to embrace the values her father imparted, choosing to love rather than hate.

Stephen Singleton was a respected figure in the Detroit area, well-known for his compassionate service. His long-standing commitment extended beyond his church, where he had previously served as a medic and provided assistance at Ground Zero following the tragic events of September 11. Teri reflected on her husband’s impact, stating, “He was a loving person who cared about everybody… the whole neighborhood, everybody in our community has come to my door.”

As the family processes this immense loss, they are also mobilizing support through a GoFundMe campaign to arrange a compassionate farewell for their beloved pastor. Singleton’s legacy of kindness continues to resonate within their community as they navigate the aftermath of this heartbreaking accident.

The situation of undocumented immigrants and the legal ambiguities surrounding them remains a contentious topic, especially in light of reports citing significant numbers of undocumented individuals released into the United States in recent years. The contrast between the Singleton family’s tragedy and broader immigration issues highlights ongoing debates over safety, responsibility, and compassion.

With her husband gone, Teri is grappling with a surreal reality where the person who caused so much pain is still free. “He’s dead, and they’re walking around,” she said, reflecting the anguish that many families experience in similar circumstances. In their time of mourning, the Singeltons are left to confront the complexities of grief, justice, and community in the wake of a devastating loss.

4 responses to “Family of Michigan pastor killed by illegal immigrant driver questions release decision”

  1. Ron Molter Avatar
    Ron Molter

    This is so TRAGIC!! Because of BIDEN’s ILLEGAL ALIEN POLICY, another AMERICAN was killed. This has to stop. President Trump will, hopefully, get rid of these ALIENS.

  2. The Rau Family Avatar

    WHY would a court or Police Dept. allow someone who did this to be running around free? Michigan had better get stronger on on murderers!

  3. Lawrence Logue III Avatar
    Lawrence Logue III

    If he ran a Red Light, I may be wrong, but isn’t that vehicular homicide? Why is he free on the streets?

  4. Eileen Avatar
    Eileen

    This is so very sad. I do hope you are able to deal with this trauma with your prayers and faith in God above.

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