Driver in deadly Berkley crash was intoxicated and going “100 mph,” police say

Authorities say a Detroit man was intoxicated by alcohol and controlled substances and driving in speeds of over 100 mph when he crashed in Berkley and killed a Macomb County man.

]Marquis D. Jackson from Detroit, was arraigned Friday, Oct. 2 in 44th District Court in Royal Oak with one count of operating while intoxicated causing death, a 15-year felony. Officials said he had a blood-alcohol level double the legal limit, while preliminary crash findings indicate the vehicle was traveling over 100 MPH.

He was released on a $200,000 personal bond.

According to the Berkley Public Safety Department, first responders were called about 10:15 p.m. Sept. 7 to report a vehicle crash and fire in the area of Edgewood Avenue and Henley Street.

Police identified the victim as Eugene Garnett, 51, of Warren, who was the front-seat passenger in Jackson’s vehicle.

“Investigation has revealed both Alcohol and Controlled Substances are involved in the circumstances surrounding the driver’s condition, with his alcohol level double the legal limit,” officers said in a news release.

Speed has also been identified as a factor in the crash investigation, with preliminary results showing the suspect drove over 100 MPH, according to the police department.

Jackson’s bond conditions include receiving an alcohol tether and he can’t drive a motor vehicle.

A probable cause conference is scheduled for Oct. 16 in 44th District Court.