In a tragic incident on Saturday in Michigan, a heavily intoxicated pregnant woman struck an extended family crossing the street, resulting in two deaths and injuring 14 others. The incident took place in Watership Township, just north of Lansing, as reported by the Clinton County Sheriff's Office.

The suspect, Ashley Monroe, 35, appeared in court on Monday and pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including six counts of operating under the influence, two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and one count of failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing death. The arraignment, covered by Fox 2 Detroit, revealed that Monroe fled the scene of the accident but was apprehended by deputies three minutes later. When found, her car had significant front-end damage, and law enforcement officials discovered a mostly-empty bottle of Crown Royal whiskey and two bottles of antidepressants in her purse.

According to assistant prosecutor Debra Martinez, blood and tissue from the victims were found embedded in the wreckage of Monroe's vehicle. Prosecutors also revealed that Monroe's blood alcohol content (BAC) was tested to be. 183, well over twice the legal limit of. 08. Two individuals, Johnathan Esch, 30, and Daniel Harris, 42, tragically lost their lives in the incident. The other 14 victims, ranging in age from 2 to 61, were swiftly rushed to a nearby hospital. The Clinton County Sheriff's Office stated that the victims were all family members.

Among the injured victims, a 38-year-old woman remains in critical condition, while others suffered injuries that were not life-threatening. Seven of the victims were children under the age of 8, as stated by the Sheriff's Office in a press release.

During the court hearing, Martinez argued for a $500,000 bond, expressing concerns about Monroe's threat to public safety. However, Ronald Zawacki, Monroe's attorney, argued for a lower bond, emphasizing her lack of prior criminal record and stable family life. Ultimately, District Court Judge Michael Clarizio decided to double the recommended amount, setting Monroe's bond at $1 million cash/surety.

Clarizio emphasized the seriousness of the situation, acknowledging the loss of two lives and the impact on multiple victims. Monroe is currently being held at the Clinton County Jail, awaiting her probable cause hearing, which is scheduled for May 30.

This devastating incident serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of driving under the influence and the importance of responsible behavior on the road. Authorities continue to investigate the case, while the affected family and community mourn the loss and support those injured in the accident.