Late Friday night, law enforcement responded to a shocking incident in northwest Grand Rapids: a vehicle plowed into the front of a Walgreens on East Beltline Avenue NE, between Plainfield and Grand River Drive. Deputies from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office say the store was closed at the time with no customers inside—but the driver fled the scene.
The driver was later located and arrested. He now faces multiple charges, including operating while intoxicated (OWI) and leaving the scene of a crash. Authorities noted that the crash appeared to be the direct result of alcohol impairment.
According to deputies, the call came in after the car struck the building and remained at the scene temporarily before the driver departed. The store’s occupants were safe as it had closed for the night.
Sheriff’s deputies recovered the vehicle and processed the scene. The driver was taken into custody at the Kent County Jail. The charges include OWI and hit‑and‑run, highlighting the severity of the incident.
While no injuries to bystanders were reported, the incident created property damage, exposed retail‑zone risk, and raised alarm about how drunk drivers can easily turn routine shopping areas into scenes of potential carnage.
The Walgreens location is a busy retail hub, and even though the store was closed at the time, the crash left smashed glass, structural damage and a shaken neighborhood. Business owners and patrons were left asking how this could happen at a familiar and otherwise safe local spot.
Crashes involving DUI and leaving the scene bring layered consequences. Above the criminal case facing the driver, the community and local businesses now face clean‑up costs, interrupted operations, and the emotional impact of a disorderly event in a public area.
In the wake of the crash, residents and store operators alike emphasized the need for stricter DUI enforcement, better lighting in commercial zones, and neighborhood vigilance.
Incidents like this one highlight that criminal proceedings are only part of the story. Property owners, bystanders, and store employees impacted by a DUI crash may have the right to pursue civil compensation for damages, emotional trauma, lost business and expenses.
If you or your business has been harmed—either physically, emotionally or financially—by a drunk driver, you could hold that driver—and even other responsible parties—accountable.
At Haggard Crime Victim Attorney, a division of The Haggard Law Firm, our team represents individuals and businesses affected by DUI crashes and violent or reckless conduct. Led by nationally recognized lawyer Michael Haggard, Esq., we offer:
Free, no‑obligation consultations
Representation on a contingency‑fee basis (you pay nothing unless we recover compensation)
Legal advocacy in all 50 states
Investigation of all potentially liable parties (drivers, establishments, property owners, etc.)
Whether you suffered injuries, property damage, or lost income due to someone else’s impaired and reckless driving, our legal team is here to help you recover and find justice.
Seek medical attention—even if you feel “fine,” some injuries appear later.
Report any damage or incident you witnessed to law enforcement and your insurer.
Document everything: photos of damage, vehicle info, business losses, witness contacts.
Contact experienced legal counsel early to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
If you or someone you know was involved in or impacted by the Grand Rapids Walgreens crash—or any DUI incident in Michigan—don’t wait. Contact Haggard Crime Victim Attorney today for a free and confidential consultation. We will help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation and accountability you deserve.
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