Man Charged In Deadly Johnston Motorcycle Crash

(Johnston, IA) -- A Des Moines woman is dead after a Johnston motorcycle crash. Police say 46-year-old Michelle Shawhan was on a motorcycle operated by 44-year-old Todd Phillips of Colfax, that crashed early Saturday morning at Merle Hay Road and NW Beaver Drive. Police say Phillips ran away after the crash, but was found hiding nearby with the help of a police dog.

Police say Phillips was charged with OWI 2nd Offense, Driving While Barred, and Serious Injury by Vehicle, but bonded out before Shawhan died. Phillips is now facing additional charges.

• The charge of Serious Injury by Vehicle is being amended to Vehicular Homicide (Class B Felony)

• An additional charge of Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death (Class C Felony) is

also being filed.

Currently officers with the 5th Judicial District are searching for Phillips on a parole violation warrant stemming from charges from the crash.

Police say anyone who knows his whereabouts is asked to contact the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Todd William Phillips

Photo: Polk County Jail


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