- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Van Buren Township man charged in fatal August crash
Christopher Allan Chamberlain faces reckless driving charges in collision that killed Sumpter woman
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
Christopher Allan Chamberlain, 23, of Van Buren Township was charged with reckless driving causing death and other felonies in connection with an August 2025 crash that killed Janet Lynn Schonscheck, 64, of Sumpter Township. The three-vehicle collision occurred on Haggerty Road in Van Buren Township when Chamberlain's vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with Schonscheck's SUV.
Why it matters
Fatal car crashes like this one are devastating for the victims' families and communities. This case highlights the need for safe driving practices and accountability for drivers whose actions result in loss of life.
The details
According to police, on August 15, 2025, Chamberlain was driving a red Chevrolet Silverado northbound on Haggerty Road when his vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with Schonscheck's southbound Ford Explorer. A third vehicle, a BMW, was also involved in the crash. Schonscheck was pronounced dead at the scene, while Chamberlain was treated for injuries and released from the hospital. Excessive speed is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash.
- On August 15, 2025, the three-vehicle crash occurred on Haggerty Road in Van Buren Township.
- On February 11, 2026, Chamberlain was video-arraigned in custody by a district court judge on the charges.
- Chamberlain is scheduled for a probable cause conference on February 24, 2026 and a preliminary exam on March 3, 2026.
The players
Christopher Allan Chamberlain
A 23-year-old Van Buren Township resident who was charged with reckless driving causing death and other felonies in connection with the August 2025 crash.
Janet Lynn Schonscheck
A 64-year-old Sumpter Township resident who was killed in the August 2025 crash when Chamberlain's vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with her SUV.
Brian A. Oakley
The 34th District Court Chief Judge who video-arraigned Chamberlain on the charges.
Jason Wright
The Van Buren Township Police Chief who expressed condolences to Schonscheck's family after Chamberlain's arraignment.
Kenneth Floro
The Van Buren Township Police Department Detective/Lieutenant who provided the preliminary details on the August 2025 crash.
What they’re saying
“The death of Janet Schonscheck is tragic, and my thoughts and condolences remain with her family and friends.”
— Jason Wright, Van Buren Township Police Chief (bellevilleareaindependent.com)
What’s next
The judge will decide on February 24 whether to allow Chamberlain to be released on bond pending further court proceedings.
The takeaway
This case underscores the devastating consequences that can result from reckless driving and the importance of holding drivers accountable when their actions lead to loss of life. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to promote safe driving practices and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
