Spitler’s family, especially her children and siblings, are now grappling with the sudden and senseless loss. She was known for her strong family values, her work ethic, and her warm, friendly demeanor that made her a beloved member of the small community. She had been employed in the area for many years, where she was respected by colleagues and clients alike.

As investigators continue their efforts to piece together the details of the tragic hit-and-run, they are also working closely with Spitler’s family to provide them with the support they need during this incredibly difficult time.

The Incident: What We Know So Far

The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, just after 3:00 AM. Saginaw County Sheriff’s deputies received a call about a pedestrian struck by a vehicle near the intersection of Fergus Road and Bishop Road, both of which are located in the rural areas of Albee Township. Given the remote nature of the area, it is unclear whether there were any witnesses in the immediate vicinity when the accident occurred.

When deputies arrived on the scene, they found Melissa Spitler lying on the road, severely injured. Despite the arrival of paramedics and emergency medical personnel, it was soon determined that Spitler’s injuries were too severe to be survivable, and she was declared dead at the scene. Authorities immediately began to work on identifying the driver of the vehicle responsible, who fled the scene after striking Spitler.

Sheriff’s deputies have stated that the vehicle involved in the crash was likely a dark-colored sedan, although the exact make and model remain unknown. There was no indication that alcohol or drugs were a factor in the incident, but authorities are still investigating all possible leads.

At this time, no arrests have been made, but the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation. Deputies have canvassed the area surrounding the crash site, looking for potential surveillance footage, dashcam videos, or witnesses who might have seen anything suspicious in the hours leading up to the incident.

The Community’s Response and Impact

The loss of Melissa Spitler has had a profound impact on the residents of Brant and the surrounding communities. As news of the tragic accident spread, local businesses, neighbors, and friends began to express their shock and sorrow over the incident.

Spitler’s family has set up a memorial fund in her name, with the goal of raising money to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support to her surviving relatives. They have also called for justice, asking anyone with information to step forward and help bring the person responsible to justice.

“This is a tragedy for our entire community,” said one local business owner who had known Spitler for many years. “She was such a kind and loving person. This loss is felt deeply by all of us.”

A community vigil is planned for later in the week to honor Spitler’s memory and offer support to her family. Local churches, civic organizations, and residents have all pledged to come together to show their solidarity during this difficult time.

The Investigation: Next Steps and Plea for Public Assistance

The Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office has been working around the clock to investigate the circumstances surrounding the hit-and-run. Deputies have stated that they are following up on several leads but have not yet been able to identify the driver involved in the crash.

“We are doing everything we can to bring this case to a resolution,” said Sheriff William L. R. McDonough in a statement to the press. “We know that someone out there knows something, and we urge them to come forward. Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be the key to solving this case.”

The sheriff’s office is asking anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the incident or who may have seen anything unusual to contact their office. Deputies have also urged anyone with dashcam footage or surveillance videos from nearby businesses to share that footage with investigators.

While the driver remains at large, the sheriff’s office has vowed to continue their efforts to track down the individual responsible for this tragic incident. In the meantime, authorities are encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information that could help in the investigation.

Legal Implications: Charges for the Driver

Once the driver is apprehended, they could face serious charges, including vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident, and failure to render aid. Given the nature of the incident, where the driver fled the scene without offering any assistance to the victim, the individual could face significant legal consequences if caught.

Under Michigan law, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident, especially one that results in injury or death. In such cases, the driver could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted of fleeing the scene of a fatal crash.

Authorities are also considering the possibility that the driver could be charged with vehicular manslaughter, a crime that could result in significant prison time. The exact charges will depend on the investigation’s findings, and whether or not it is determined that the driver acted recklessly or negligently.

As the investigation continues, legal experts believe that the driver’s actions could lead to severe consequences under Michigan’s criminal code, especially if the hit-and-run was a result of negligence or impaired driving.

Moving Forward: Seeking Justice and Accountability

As the investigation unfolds, the Spitler family and the community of Brant are hoping for justice. Melissa Spitler’s tragic death has left a deep emotional scar on her loved ones, and the community is united in their desire to see the responsible party held accountable for their actions.

“It’s hard to understand how someone could do something like this and not stop to help,” said one neighbor, visibly shaken by the loss. “We just want answers and justice for Melissa.”

As the days pass and the investigation progresses, the Spitler family remains hopeful that the driver will be found and held responsible for their actions. In the meantime, they are focusing on remembering the life of Melissa Spitler — a mother, sister, and friend — whose life was tragically taken far too soon.

The Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office is committed to finding justice for Melissa Spitler and bringing closure to her grieving family. Deputies continue to urge anyone with information to come forward and help solve this heartbreaking case.

Final Thoughts
The tragedy of Melissa Spitler’s untimely death in the early hours of May 10, 2025, has shaken the community of Brant and beyond. While investigators work tirelessly to identify the driver responsible for the hit-and-run, the focus remains on supporting Spitler’s family and ensuring that justice is served. The residents of Saginaw County stand together in their grief, determined to see the person who caused this devastating loss held accountable for their actions.