Teen Charged In Sterling Heights Crash That Killed Pregnant Mom

STERLING HEIGHTS, MI — A Detroit teen was charged in connection to a Sterling Heights crash that killed one and injured two others in August.

The 16-year-old, whom officials did not identify, was charged with second degree murder (life felony), gross negligence causing death of a fetus, (15 year felony), fleeing and eluding in the first degree (15 year felony) and two counts of reckless driving causing serious injury (five-year felony).

The 16-year-old was charged as an adult and placed in jail with a $500,000 bond. He must wear a GPS tether if he is released from jail. His next court date is scheduled for Aug. 31.

"This young man's decision to evade a routine traffic stop has left an overwhelming loss," Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said. "His actions not only shattered a family but also eroded the community's sense of security. Our office will always tirelessly pursue justice for the families who have to live with these unnecessary, tragic events. This reminds us all that every choice we make carries consequences that go far beyond the moment."

Police said the teen was speeding away from officers in a Chevy Equinox and ran a red light in the area of Van Dyke Avenue and 16 Mile Road on Aug. 12 at 9:30 p.m. when he slammed into a GMC Terrain.

Faith Gumma, 31, and her unborn child were died in the crash, while her 34-year-old husband, Norman, and their 2-year-old son, Elijah, were injured and taken to a nearby hospital, police said.

Norman was still in critical condition, while Elijah was released from the hospital, police said.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with funeral costs and medical expenses. As of Tuesday, the page raised nearly $259,000, short of its $350,000 goal.

Elijah suffered fractured ribs and lacerated organs in the crash, but was expected to make a full recovery, family members said. Norman, on the other hand, was still intubated and in critical condition at the hospital, family members said, according to the GoFundMe page.

The teen driver was not injured and was arrested in connection to the crash, police said.

Officers said the Chevy Equinox was driving straight with its blinker on for roughly a mile in the area of Van Dyke Avenue and 15 Mile Road, according to police.

Officers then ran the SUV's license plate, which came back with no insurance, police said.
Officers then tried stopping the SUV, but the teen fled sped away and slammed into the GMC Terrain roughly 36 seconds later, police said.