County Truck Driver Charged in Fatal Farmington Hills Hit-and-Run

Preliminary exam scheduled for RCOC employee accused of leaving scene after striking and killing pedestrian

Mar. 2, 2026 at 2:07am

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A Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) plow truck driver has been charged with a felony for allegedly striking and killing a 68-year-old pedestrian in Farmington Hills on New Year's Day, then fleeing the scene. The driver, Bryan Derryberry, is scheduled for a preliminary exam on March 27 where a judge will determine if there is probable cause to advance the case to trial.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents, especially those involving commercial vehicles, raise serious public safety concerns. This case highlights the importance of driver accountability and the need for thorough investigations to ensure justice for victims and their families.

The details

According to police, Derryberry allegedly struck Edward Detroit of Sterling Heights, rendering him unconscious, and then drove away. Emergency responders found Detroit lying on the side of the road and transported him to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Investigators were able to identify Derryberry as the suspect and evidence from the RCOC truck confirmed its involvement in the crash.

  • The incident occurred on New Year's Day, January 1, 2026.
  • Derryberry's preliminary exam is scheduled for March 27, 2026.

The players

Bryan Derryberry

A 51-year-old, 3-year employee of the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) who has been charged with a felony for allegedly striking and killing a pedestrian in a hit-and-run incident.

Edward Detroit

A 68-year-old pedestrian from Sterling Heights who was struck and killed in the hit-and-run incident in Farmington Hills.

Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC)

The government agency that employed Derryberry as a plow truck driver.

Farmington Hills Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the hit-and-run incident and charged Derryberry.

Judge Marla Parker

The 47th District Court judge who will preside over Derryberry's preliminary exam.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold all drivers accountable, especially those operating commercial vehicles, to ensure the safety of pedestrians on our roads.”

— Farmington Hills Police Chief

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 27 whether or not there is probable cause to advance the charges against Derryberry to Oakland County Circuit Court for possible trial.

The takeaway

This tragic hit-and-run case underscores the need for stricter accountability measures and harsher penalties for commercial drivers who flee the scene of a fatal accident. It also highlights the importance of thorough investigations to ensure justice for victims and their families.