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Sterling Heights Today
By the People, for the People
Off-duty Detroit officer arrested after hit-and-run crash in Sterling Heights
Police say the officer fled the scene after causing a 17-year-old to crash into a fire hydrant.
Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:06pm
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A damaged vehicle part serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving, even for those sworn to uphold the law.Sterling Heights TodayAn off-duty Detroit police officer was arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle while impaired after allegedly causing a hit-and-run crash in Sterling Heights, Michigan on Friday night. The officer allegedly turned directly into the path of a 17-year-old driver, causing the teen to lose control and strike a fire hydrant. The officer then fled the scene but was later located by police using the vehicle's license plate.
Why it matters
This incident raises concerns about the conduct of law enforcement officers, especially when they are off-duty. Hit-and-run crashes and driving under the influence are serious offenses that can endanger public safety, and the fact that the suspect is a police officer adds an additional layer of scrutiny to the case.
The details
According to police, the crash occurred around 11:45 p.m. at the intersection of Metropolitan Parkway and Van Dyke Avenue in Sterling Heights. A 17-year-old male was driving eastbound on Metropolitan Parkway when a female driver in a blue 2026 Toyota Camry, traveling northbound on Van Dyke Avenue, turned directly into his path. The collision caused the teen to lose control of his vehicle and strike a nearby fire hydrant, but he was not injured. The female driver, later identified as an off-duty Detroit police officer, fled the scene but was later located by police using the vehicle's license plate. She was arrested on suspicion of operating while impaired and booked into the Macomb County Jail pending the results of a blood test.
- The crash occurred around 11:45 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2026.
- The off-duty officer was later located and arrested by police.
The players
17-year-old driver
The teenage driver who was involved in the crash but was not injured.
Off-duty Detroit police officer
The female driver of the Toyota Camry who allegedly caused the crash and then fled the scene.
Sterling Heights Police Department
The law enforcement agency investigating the hit-and-run incident and arresting the off-duty officer.
What they’re saying
“The investigation remains ongoing.”
— Sterling Heights Police Department
What’s next
The off-duty Detroit police officer will face charges related to the hit-and-run crash and suspected impaired driving. The Sterling Heights Police Department is continuing its investigation and is asking anyone with additional information to come forward.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the importance of holding law enforcement officers accountable for their actions, both on and off duty. The public expects police to uphold the law, and any alleged misconduct by officers, especially in cases involving public safety, must be thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.
