Melissa Spitler Obituary, Death: A Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident Claims the Life of a 53-Year-Old Woman in Saginaw County, Michigan
A tragic hit-and-run incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, May 10, in Saginaw County, Michigan, claiming the life of 53-year-old Melissa Spitler, a resident of Brant, a small community in Saginaw County. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and appealing to the public for any information that might help them locate the driver responsible for the deadly crash .
The Incident
At approximately 3:25 a.m., deputies from the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the area of Fergus Road and Bishop Road in Albee Township after someone reported a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies discovered Melissa Spitler lying on the roadway with severe injuries. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene. The vehicle involved in the incident fled the scene after the crash, and investigators currently do not have a description of the car or the driver .
Investigation
Saginaw County Undersheriff Miguel Gomez spoke briefly about the case, expressing concern over the lack of leads but remaining hopeful that the community will step forward with helpful information. “We’re hoping people are going to call us,” Gomez said, emphasizing the crucial role public assistance often plays in solving cases like this. The sheriff’s office has urged anyone who may have been traveling through the area during the early morning hours or anyone who has information about a vehicle that may have recently sustained front-end damage to come forward.
Community Reaction
Melissa Spitler’s death has deeply affected the local community, particularly in Brant, where she was known by friends and family. Neighbors and friends have expressed shock and sadness over her sudden passing. Although she had not been publicly involved in local politics or organizations, those who knew her say she was a kind and hardworking woman who cared deeply for her family and friends. Grief counselors have been made available to members of her church and community, who are still coming to terms with the news .
Road Safety and Prevention
This fatal hit-and-run adds to a growing number of similar incidents across the country, where pedestrians are left vulnerable on roadways, particularly in rural or low-lit areas. Safety advocates have long called for improved street lighting, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossing measures in these regions to prevent such tragedies. Under Michigan law, a driver involved in a collision that results in injury or death is required to stop and remain at the scene to provide aid and cooperate with law enforcement. Leaving the scene of a fatal accident can result in felony charges, including prison time and the loss of driving privileges .
Obtaining Certified Copies of Death Certificates
For those seeking certified copies of Melissa Spitler’s death certificate, the Saginaw County Clerk’s Office maintains death certificates for individuals whose death occurred in Saginaw County. You can obtain a certified copy of a death certificate in person, by mail, or online through the Web Self-Service Portal. The fees for certified copies vary depending on the method of request, with in-person requests costing $15 for the first copy and $7 for each additional copy .
Conclusion
Melissa Spitler’s death serves as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by pedestrians and the importance of responsible driving. Authorities remain committed to finding justice for her and bringing some level of peace to those mourning her loss. The investigation remains ongoing, and updates will be released as more information becomes available. If you have any information related to the crash, please contact the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office at 989-790-5423. Tipsters can remain anonymous if they prefer .
