Investigators say alcohol was a factor in a one-car crash that happened just after 2 a.m. the morning of Friday, August 7.
The Kent County Sheriff Department is investigating the accident that occurred on Kies Street west of Myers Lake Avenue. They say a 2006 Chevy Cobalt was traveling eastbound on Kies when it left the roadway and struck a tree.
The driver was Kody Bleich, 21, of Wayland. Bleich was ejected from the vehicle and transported to Spectrum Butterworth by Rockford Ambulance.
The passenger was Devin Vandenheuval, 21, of Rockford. He was pinned in the vehicle and later listed in critical condition at Spectrum Butterworth.
Aeromed was called to the scene but did not transport the either accident victim.
Officer Graham enlisted the assistance of Officer Robinson and Officer Bradley who took several larceny complaints from residents in the Highlands sub-division. The Officers interviewed the six offenders, and were able to solve over twenty car larcenies and one garage breaking and entering. All of the property reported missing was recovered. “The Officers quick action allowed them to clear the cases before some of the victims were aware that their cars had been entered” Chief Jones said.
Five of the youths are juveniles, and will be referred to the Family Court for charges. The other youth, an 18 year old, will be arraigned on the charges on a date yet to be determined. Charges will be Breaking and Entering, Larceny from an Auto and Receiving and Concealing Stolen Property.
Chief Jones asks that everyone be reminded to lock their cars and garage doors at night. “These types of crimes are crimes of opportunity. If we take the opportunity away the thieves will go somewhere else,” Jones said. If you notice something missing from your car, please call the Rockford Police Department. Several recovered items have not yet been reported stolen.
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