ORION TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for information that leads to the arrest of a driver who struck a road sign, sending it flying into another vehicle, where it struck and killed a 31-year-old Lake Orion man.
Police said at 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, a driver heading north on Lapeer Road near Waldon Road in Orion Township veered into the median, struck a road sign, and sent it flying into the air. The road sign smashed through the windshield of a 2013 Volkswagen Passat, killing 31-year-old Thomas Schleicher.
Schleicher had just dropped his son off at daycare and was driving his black 2013 Volkswagen Passat south on Lapeer Road when the road sign struck him. He was pronounced dead a few days later.
Schleicher is described as an easy-going guy who brought joy whenever he walked into a room. If there was a wedding, or a party, he’d be the first one on the dance floor showing off what his wife describes as “interesting” dance moves. He was the proud father of an 11-month-old son.
The driver who initially struck the sign did not stop at the scene of the crash. Police believe that driver was in a 2013 or 2015 silver or gray Kia Optima. The vehicle may have had damage to its front end or a crease in the hood.
Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. You can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP or visit 1800speakup.org to report a tip.
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