On November 4, 2023, 25-year-old Keagan Spencer was towing vehicles when he stopped in the median along M-6 in Caledonia Township.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Payton Ferris was driving eastbound near Kraft Avenue at a speed of 80 mph. When the vehicle ahead slowed, Ferris swerved left, lost control, and veered off the road into the median. According to court documents, Ferris was also on his phone right before the accident.
Tragically, Payton Ferris struck Spencer, who was outside his tow truck near a crossover, resulting in his death. Ferris later pleaded no contest to a charge of moving violation causing death, a misdemeanor carrying a maximum penalty of one year.
Spencer was engaged to Olivia Kain and left behind two young children.
Keagan Spencer's family reacts at the court hearing
As reported by Michigan Live, at a hearing last month, Payton Ferris pleaded no contest to a charge of moving violation causing death for the incident that claimed the life of Keagan Spencer in November 2023.
Ferris received a 24-month probationary sentence from the court. He must fulfill 500 hours of community service, pay a $2,000 fine, and make restitution (the exact amount is still pending) as part of the conditions. Ferris will also receive a one-year jail sentence in Kent County if he breaks the terms of his probation.
The sentencing sparked outrage among those present in the courtroom. Keagan Spencer’s family and friends, who felt the punishment was far too lenient, expressed their anger openly, prompting Kent County Sheriff's Deputies to escort them from the room.
Matt Spencer and Miko Garrison, the parents of Keagan Spencer, shared the deep pain they’ve endured since their son’s tragic death. An emotional Matt Spencer said:
“You took my first born and my only son. Keagan may still be here today if you would’ve just slowed down. You deserve to spend Christmas behind bars. You served me a life sentence without my son.”
During the hearing, Garrison, Keagan's mother, held up her phone to show Ferris a heartfelt video of Keagan playing with his young children. She spoke about the irreplaceable moments her family has lost, reflecting on the milestones her son will never experience and the future memories he won’t share with his children or his fiancée, who had been preparing to marry him. Garrison said:
“I hope that a dark cloud hangs on you because Keagan deserved justice,”
The heartfelt remarks from Olivia Kain, Keagan Spencer’s fiancée, ultimately brought Payton Ferris to tears. She said:
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“I got the call nobody in their right mind would want. This year has been hell. Raising kids without the person you expected your future with is near impossible.”
Olivia's statements also brought tears to Judge Kirsten Holz's eyes.
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