Fiancé of Child's Mother Charged In Death of 3-Year-Old
- Michael Walker
- Apr 4
- 1 min read
(UPDATED April 4, 2026) CEDAR SPRINGS - A 33-year-old Cedar Springs man is facing criminal charges after 3-year-old Estella Johnson was fatally struck Friday afternoon at Northland Estates Mobile Home Park, according to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office.
Emergency crews were called to the park shortly after 4 p.m. Friday on a report of a child hit by a pickup truck. Deputies from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, and local fire and EMS personnel responded to the scene.
First responders began life-saving efforts, but the child died from severe injuries, authorities said.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office said Saturday that the driver of the pickup truck, who initially told police he was the child’s father was later identified as the fiancé of the child's mother, and was driving recklessly at the time of the crash. Alcohol is also believed to have been a factor.
The man was arrested and is currently facing two charges, including one of reckless driving causing death.
Authorities said the man is expected to be arraigned early next week. Additional charges may be sought as the investigation continues.
The sheriff's office Traffic Safety Unit and Investigative Division is continuing its investigation of the crash.
