On Friday, October 6, 2023, a woman from Michigan was found guilty of second-degree murder and operating under the influence. This verdict follows her involvement in a collision during the 2022 Make-A-Wish charity bicycle ride.

Mandy Benn, 43, was attempting to pass a UPS truck when she crossed the center line. This resulted in a direct collision with a group of bicyclists who were participants in the charity event. 

Edward Erickson, 48, from Ann Arbor, and Michael Salhaney, 57, from Bloomfield Hills were fatally injured in the collision.

Three other event participants also suffered injuries from the incident.

Following the collision, Benn displayed signs of disorientation. While there was no alcohol detected in her system, her behavior, such as slurred speech and difficulty following instructions, pointed to the possible influence of prescription drugs. Benn’s defense emphasized that she had taken only a therapeutic dose of her medication before the crash occurred.

The community highlighted the contributions of both Erickson and Salhaney to the Make-A-Wish event. Erickson was known for his dedication to his family, his love for cycling, and his drive to help children. Salhaney’s dedication and contributions to the charity were also widely acknowledged by those around him.