Reward Increased to $10K for Information Leading to Arrest of Driver Involved in February Crash that Led to Death of Lake Orion Man!
Oakland County, MI – March 21, 2023 – A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for
information leading to the arrest of a driver involved in an Orion Township traffic crash a month
ago that resulted in the death of a Lake Orion man.
Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigators are seeking the public’s help in identifying
the vehicle and driver involved in a Feb. 21 crash on Lapeer Road near Waldon Road that
ultimately took the life of 31-year-old Thomas James Schleicher.
“We really need the public’s help with this case,” Sheriff Michael Bouchard said. “The individual
that caused the death of Thomas fled the scene after striking the sign that killed him. If anyone
was in the area, saw anything, or has knowledge, please help us find that person and receive a
substantial reward. The car would have had front end damage from the crash.”
Crime Stoppers Posters Seeking Help Finding Driver Involved in Death of Thomas Schleicher!
The crash happened at approximately 7:45am. A vehicle was northbound on Lapeer Road
when it veered into the median, striking a road sign which became dislodged and went airborne.
At the same time, Schleicher was driving a 2013 Volkswagen Passat southbound on Lapeer
Road. The road sign went through the windshield of the Passat, striking Schleicher. The Passat
then veered off Lapeer Road and eventually stopped against a tree near Waldon Road.
The other driver did not stop after the crash. Schleicher, who had been wearing a seat belt, was
transported to the hospital by paramedics from the Orion Township Fire Department. He
succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident on March 1st.
Investigators believe a silver or gray 2013-2015 Kia Optima may have been the vehicle involved
in the crash. The Optima would likely have damage to its front end and possibly a crease in the
hood. Investigators have no information about the driver of the vehicle.
Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the
driver. Anyone who may have seen the accident, the vehicle, or knows the driver should call
Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Tipsters remain anonymous.
The incident is being investigated by the Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit.
PREVIOUS RELATED ARTICLE: Sheriff’s Investigators Narrow Search for Vehicle Involved in Feb 21 Traffic Crash in Orion Township!
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March 22, 2023, Oakland County Sheriff and Rochester.Life staff