Driver arrested after fleeing crash that injured her friend

ROTHBURY — A 35-year-old Rothbury woman was arrested after allegedly fleeing the scene of an accident Friday evening involving a 26-year-old Rothbury woman who was seriously injured after she fell from the moving vehicle while riding on the front bumper. Police believe alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Troopers from the Hart post of the Michigan State Police were dispatched to an “unknown personal injury accident” on Bartlett Road near Forrest Street in the village limits Friday, Oct 2, at approximately 6 p.m., according to an MSP press release.

Troopers arrived on scene and determined a 26-year-old Rothbury woman had fallen from a moving vehicle, while riding on the front bumper area of her friend’s vehicle.

The driver fled the scene shortly after the incident occurred and prior to law enforcement’s arrival. The victim was transported by Oceana County EMS to Hackley Hospital in Muskegon, where she was admitted.

Troopers were able to identify the driver and interview her, the press release states. As a result of the investigation, she was arrested and lodged at the Oceana County Jail. “This crash is still under investigation; however, alcohol does appear to be a factor,” the press release states.

Troopers were also assisted at the scene by the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office.