Driver charged in fatal walker crash

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) - A woman has been arraigned after the vehicle she was driving struck two pedestrians -- one fatally -- on a Kalamazoo County road.

Amanda Ambs was arraigned Thursday in a Kalamazoo courtroom on a misdemeanor charge of a moving violation causing the death of Kyler Lanning.

Ambs' attorney entered a not guilty plea on her behalf.

Ambs was driving on S. 29th Street in Comstock Township on July 12 when police said her vehicle struck Lanning and Lanning's boyfriend, Darel Stewart, near East MN Avenue.

Lanning, 24, died from her injuries and Stewart suffered a broken foot.

Alcohol was not considered a factor in the crash.

24 Hour News 8 talked to Lanning's parents after Thursday's hearing. They said they understand the incident was an accident but they want Ambs to take responsibility for it.

"On both ends it's tragic, even if she does a year in jail," Doug Harness, Lanning's father said. "I understand she [Ambs] has young children as well, and as parents we teach our kids to take responsibility."

Harness said his daughter left behind twin 8-year-old girls.

Lanning's mother said it was a tragic accident and Ambs will have to live with it for the rest of her life, but they'll have to live without their daughter for the rest of their lives.

A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for Dec. 12. If convicted on the charge, Ambs from Scotts, could face up to a year in jail or a $2,000 fine.

Her attorney told the judge that Ambs is not currently driving.