Title: Woman Charged with Drunk Driving at Monroe County Birthday Party Released on $1.5M Bond

A woman, Marshella Chidester, has been released on bond after being charged with murder following a tragic incident at a child's birthday party in Monroe County. Chidester, 66, allegedly crashed her vehicle into the party while under the influence of alcohol, resulting in the death of two young siblings and injuries to at least 10 others.

Chidester posted bond on Thursday, April 25, just two days after her arraignment on eight charges, according to court documents. The charges against her include two counts of second-degree murder, two counts of operating under the influence of liquor causing death, and four counts of OUIL causing serious injury.

A Monroe County judge set Chidester's bond at $1.5 million, which was recommended by the prosecutor's office. The judge imposed several conditions on her release, prohibiting her from consuming alcohol, driving, committing any other crimes, leaving the state, or having contact with the victims.

Chidester is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, April 30, for a probable cause hearing, and she is required to attend all pre-trial hearings while on bond.

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, April 20, at a birthday party held at the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township. Chidester, believed to be intoxicated, crashed her vehicle into the building, coming to a stop about 25 feet inside after crashing through a wall on the north side.

As a result of the crash, eight-year-old Alanah Phillips and her five-year-old brother, Zayn Phillips, were tragically killed. Their mother and another sibling were also injured and hospitalized in critical condition.

Nine other individuals, including three children and six adults, sustained injuries and were also taken to the hospital for treatment.

Authorities have determined that Chidester had been drinking at a nearby tavern prior to the crash. Initial breath tests showed her blood-alcohol level to be "well above" the legal limit. Chidester allegedly admitted to consuming alcohol despite knowing she was not supposed to.

Chidester's defense attorney argued that she had only consumed one glass of wine four hours before the crash and claimed that Chidester had a seizure at the time of the incident. However, the prosecution stated that there was no evidence of a seizure occurring during the crash, and emphasized that Chidester has a history of substance abuse.

During the bond hearing, Chidester's defense attorney highlighted her lack of previous criminal charges or traffic violations, advocating for a bond reduction to $100,000. However, considering the seriousness of the charges, the judge decided to maintain the bond at $1.5 million.

The case has generated significant attention, with surveillance footage capturing Chidester's speeding vehicle just moments before the crash. Additionally, nine people, including one man who sought medical treatment independently, were transported to the hospital for injuries sustained during the incident.

As Chidester awaits her upcoming court proceedings, the community mourns the loss of the young siblings and awaits justice for the victims affected by this devastating event.