ROSEVILLE – An off-duty Detroit firefighter accused of driving drunk and causing a fatal accident in Roseville has pleaded no contest to his charges.
Travis Turner, 26, of Roseville, faces one count of operating a vehicle while intoxicated - causing death and one count for possessing a firearm under the influence of alcohol in connection to the April 2026 crash, which claimed the life of 85-year-old Eleanor Johnson, of Oak Park.
According to prosecutors, Turner was driving a 2016 Ford Fusion at high speed on April 9 when he struck a 2006 Saturn Ion driven by Johnson on Groesbeck Highway, just south of Martin Road in Roseville. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.
Turner and his 23-year-old passenger suffered minor injuries during the crash. Authorities allege Turner’s blood alcohol content was above the legal limit at the time. He was also in possession of a firearm.
An OWI causing death charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Possessing a firearm under the influence is a 93-day misdemeanor.
“When someone chooses to drink and get behind the wheel, the consequences can be devastating as evidenced by this case,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido in a statement. “I hope the defendant reflects on the decisions he made that resulted in the death of an innocent woman.”
Turner’s sentencing is set for 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 4 before Judge James M. Biernat, Jr. of the Macomb County Circuit Court.
