GRAND RAPIDS TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — The driver accused of striking and killing a tow truck operator last November in southern Kent County has pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge.
Payton Ferris entered a plea Wednesday morning to moving violation causing death. It carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail.
The crash happened on Nov. 4, 2023, on eastbound M-6 near Kraft Avenue in Caledonia Township.
State police said tow truck driver Keagan Spencer, 25, was outside his vehicle when an eastbound driver lost control, went into the median and hit him. Spencer had reportedly pulled over to help a stray dog.
Since the crash, Spencer’s family has worked to raise awareness about slowing down and moving over for emergency vehicles.
The criminal charge was filed in June. Ferris remains free on bond. He is expected to be back in 63rd District Court for sentencing in mid-December.