UPDATE: A Chester man, Edward Johnson, has been sentenced to 11½ to 23 months in county jail with immediate parole to a treatment facility following a fatal DUI crash that killed his common-law wife, Michelle A. Myers. This urgent development comes just days after a hearing on November 24, 2025, where Judge Richard Cappelli imposed the sentence, emphasizing the severity of Johnson’s actions.
Johnson, aged 55, pleaded “no contest” to vehicular manslaughter after a tragic incident on the morning of May 24, 2024, where he drove at reckless speeds, ultimately causing the death of his wife, 53. The court heard that Johnson was under the influence of drugs, including cocaine and marijuana, during the crash, which occurred at the intersection of Second and Flower streets in Chester.
In a shocking revelation, Deputy District Attorney Doug Rhoads noted that Johnson was clocked driving between 68 and 79 mph in a 35 mph zone just seconds before the collision. Authorities confirmed that Johnson’s vehicle struck the rear of a tractor trailer while he was still on fire, highlighting the reckless nature of his driving.
Johnson’s attorney, Shaka Johnson, stated that his client has been addicted to crack cocaine for over two decades, but expressed hope that this tragedy may lead to a turning point in his life. During the sentencing, Johnson expressed profound remorse, stating, “I know I made a bad mistake, a very bad mistake.”
The emotional impact of the sentencing was palpable, as conversations around the courtroom revealed the deep pain felt by Myers’ family. Her sister conveyed skepticism about Johnson’s ability to stay sober, despite forgiving him. In stark contrast, Myers’ daughters voiced their support for their father, indicating a complex family dynamic that intertwines loss and forgiveness.
Judge Cappelli warned Johnson that failure to adhere to his probation terms could result in up to seven years in state prison. He stressed the importance of rehabilitation, stating, “The more you make yourself a better person, the less likely you are to do things that are stupid.”
As Johnson prepares to enter Keystone Recovery upon his release, the community watches closely, with many hoping this tragedy will serve as a wake-up call against the dangers of impaired driving.
This developing story underscores the urgent need for awareness around substance abuse and its devastating consequences. As Johnson begins his journey towards recovery, the impact of this tragic incident will linger within the community and the families involved for years to come.
Stay tuned for updates on Johnson’s rehabilitation and community responses to this tragic loss.
