Driver charged with drink-driving manslaughter after police say she hit and killed pedestrians in Essex

ESSEX COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — A 59-year-old Richmond County woman faces several charges, including manslaughter while under the influence of alcohol, after she struck and killed a pedestrian in Essex County on Monday, according to Virginia State Police.

The accident occurred on Monday, July 1, shortly after 4 p.m. in the 500 block of South Water Lane in the city of Tappahannock.

According to police, Michelle King was driving a 2003 Ford Explorer north on South Water Lane near the intersection with Earl Street when she allegedly crossed the center line and drove off the left side of the road.

According to state police, King struck the curb and then struck a pedestrian, who died at the scene. The identity of the pedestrian has not been released as state police are still working to notify his next of kin.

King was charged with drunk driving, manslaughter while intoxicated, reckless driving and obstruction of public order.

According to police, she is currently being held at the Middle Peninsula Regional Security Center in Middlesex County.