Warren Police Officer Charged with Manslaughter in Fatal High-Speed Crash

Officer James Burke faces multiple charges after a September collision killed two men, with allegations of reckless driving and policy violations.

Officer James Burke, 28, has been charged with two counts of homicide-manslaughter with a motor vehicle, among other charges, following a crash that killed Cedric Hayden Jr. and DeJuan Pettis on September 30.
The police cruiser, driven by Burke at 93.8 mph without activated emergency lights or sirens, collided with the victims' SUV as they turned left at an intersection in Warren, Michigan.
The victims' families have filed lawsuits against the city of Warren and its officers, alleging negligence and seeking over $100 million in damages.
Burke, a decorated officer with eight years of experience, has pleaded not guilty and is currently on paid administrative leave pending further investigation and legal proceedings.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office and Prosecutor's Office emphasized the gravity of the incident and their commitment to pursuing justice for the victims and their families.