Center Line, Michigan — A 21-year-old woman accused of driving an SUV through a child’s bedroom in Macomb County is now facing upgraded drunk driving charges, according to officials. The terrifying crash happened around 3 a.m. on October 13, when the vehicle slammed into a home near 10 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue in Center Line.
Inside the home, a 9-year-old girl was asleep in her bed when the SUV barreled into the room with such force that she was thrown into the yard, suffering multiple serious injuries.
Police say the crash narrowly missed a 22-month-old baby girl by just four feet, preventing what could have been an even more devastating outcome.
Driver Identified as Caris Adell Wade
Authorities identified the driver as Caris Adell Wade, 21, who allegedly fled the scene on foot immediately after the crash. Officers located her shortly afterward and placed her under arrest.
Wade was initially charged with reckless driving causing serious injury and failure to stop at the scene of a crash. However, following the return of her toxicology results, prosecutors added a new charge:
- Operating with a High Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)
According to the reports, Wade was arraigned on the upgraded charge on Thursday, December 4.
‘Super Drunk’ Classification Under Michigan Law
Under Michigan law, a driver is considered “super drunk” if they have a BAC of 0.17% or higher — more than double the standard legal limit. Drivers who fall into this category face enhanced penalties, including longer jail sentences, extended license restrictions, and mandatory alcohol treatment programs.
Officials have not disclosed Wade’s specific BAC level but confirmed it met the super drunk threshold.
Case Moves to Macomb County Circuit Court
In November, Wade waived her right to a Preliminary Exam, allowing the case to advance directly to the Macomb County Circuit Court. Her bond remains at $200,000 as the legal proceedings continue.
Local residents and community advocates have expressed outrage over the incident, calling for stricter measures against impaired driving and more robust nighttime enforcement on busy Metro Detroit roadways.
Community Rallying Behind Injured Child
The injured 9-year-old girl remains in recovery from the traumatic collision. Neighbors, family friends, and community members have rallied around the family, sharing messages of support and contributing to the GoFundMe created to help with ongoing treatment and rehabilitation costs.
Officials have not yet released an update on the child’s long-term prognosis, though the severity of her injuries has drawn widespread attention to the dangers of impaired driving.
What Comes Next in the Case?
Wade is expected to appear in circuit court in the coming weeks for further proceedings. If convicted of the super drunk charge in addition to the initial offenses, she could face substantial prison time, steep fines, and a lengthy suspension of her driving privileges.
Prosecutors continue to review evidence from the crash scene, including damage patterns, toxicology data, and witness statements.
What’s Your Take on This Case?
Do you believe Michigan’s “super drunk” penalties are strong enough? How can communities better protect families from impaired drivers? Share your thoughts, reactions, and experiences in the comments below.
