Wrong-way driver who hit and killed priest makes deal with prosecutor

GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan – A Grand Rapids man accused of causing a wrong-way driving crash on U.S. 131 that killed a popular pastor has agreed to a plea deal.

Marcel Demontae McMillan pleaded guilty Tuesday to driving under the influence causing death and one count of habitual felony. The reckless driving charge and another count of habitual felony were dropped.

These charges stem from the accident that killed Dean Elliott, 63, of Byron Center, who pastored many churches in West Michigan, from Living Hope Assembly of God to Fennville Assembly of God Church.

RELATED TOPICS: Friends remember pastor killed in wrong-way driving accident as ‘selfless’

Michigan State Police said that on April 2, 2023, a 30-year-old Grand Rapids man, later identified as McMillan, was traveling south in the northbound lanes of US-131 at approximately 8:30 a.m. when he collided head-on with a northbound vehicle.

The 63-year-old Byron Center man, now identified as Elliot, succumbed to his injuries.

Wayne Benson, a friend of Elliott, said his death was a loss not only to the ministries he worked with, but to all who loved him.

“He had very big, long arms of love. And he touched many thousands of people,” Benson said.

McMillan was previously convicted of driving without a valid license in 2021, online court records show. He will be sentenced on Wednesday, July 24, at 1:30 p.m.

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