In a tragic incident that occurred over 10 months ago, a motorist lost his life in a peculiar accident involving a dislodged road sign, struck by a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run. In a bid to find the culprit, authorities have now announced a $10,000 reward for any information that could lead to an arrest.
The incident took place on the morning of February 21, 2023, in Orion Township, Michigan. A vehicle was heading north on Lapeer Road near Waldon Road when it veered into the median, hitting a road sign. The impact caused the sign to become airborne and it subsequently crashed through the windshield of a 2013 Volkswagen Passat, driven by 31-year-old Tommy Schleicher. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office reported that Schleicher, who was the only person in the car, was heading south on Lapeer Road at the time.
Following the impact, Schleicher’s vehicle veered off the road and came to a halt against a tree. The driver of the other vehicle involved in the incident did not stop. Schleicher was rushed to a nearby hospital by paramedics, where he succumbed to his injuries on March 1.
Investigators have deduced that the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run was likely a silver or gray 2013-2015 Kia Optima, which would have sustained front-end damage and possibly a crease in the hood.
Schleicher had just dropped off his 10-month-old son at daycare and was on his way to work when the accident occurred, according to a GoFundMe page set up by family friends. His wife, Stephanie Schleicher, expressed her frustration and anger at the driver who fled the scene. She also revealed on the GoFundMe page that her husband’s organs were donated after his death, a decision they felt was the best way to honor his selfless nature.
Tommy Schleicher, a graduate of Grand Valley State University, worked for Enterprise car rentals, where he met his wife. The couple married in 2017 and welcomed their son in March 2022. Known for his selflessness and warm-hearted nature, Schleicher was passionate about golf, baseball, dancing at weddings, and cars. However, his greatest joy was being a devoted husband and father.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard emphasized the importance of locating the hit-and-run driver and urged the public to assist with the case. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Michigan.