HAZEL PARK, Mich. – A high school baseball coach is facing charges in connection with a deadly hit-and-run crash that killed a man riding a bike in Hazel Park.
The family of the victim told Local 4's Nick Monacelli that they forgive the accused driver.
"He was an inspiration to our entire family," said Tracy Stocker, the victim's sister.
Stocker is devastated over the loss of her brother, Cordie Howlette.
Howlette was killed earlier this month when he was hit by a dark SUV while crossing 9 Mile Road on his bike, police said.
Joe Dunning, the varsity baseball coach at Madison High School, is charged with Howlette's death.
Police said they spent more than a week reviewing surveillance video and talking to witnesses. When they were narrowing the investigation to Dunning, he turned himself in and confessed, police said.
Investigators also believe alcohol might have been involved, but since Dunning didn't surface until 10 days after the crash, there's no way to prove it. That's why his bail was set at $150,000.
"The bottom line is, a man was left dead, or dying," the Magistrate said.
Dunning faces five years in prison, instead of 15 years if alcohol was proven to be a factor.
Howlette leaves behind two sons -- 26 and 25 years old. But his family said they forgive Dunning.
"These people are forgiving," Stocker said. "They are forgiven."
Dunning is expected back in court later this month.
Howlette's family said they need help with funeral expenses. If you want to help, you can donate to their GoFundMe page.