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Warren hit-and-run driver sentenced in death of missing boy with autism
By Dane Kelly at WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News
· June 24, 2026
· 1 min read
A Warren man will spend at least three years in prison for his role in a hit-and-run that killed a 14-year-old boy with autism.According to authorities, Justin Spangle was driving his car in Roseville on Aug. 18, 2023, when he struck the boy near the border with Warren.The boy had been reported m...
Key takeaway Charges, evidence tampering allegationsIn January 2024, Spangle was charged with driving while license suspended causing death, tampering with evidence, failure to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in death.
Why this matters in The Detroit
The sentencing of Justin Spangle brings a measure of closure to the family of the 14-year-old boy with autism who lost his life in the hit-and-run incident. The case has raised concerns about road safety and the need for drivers to be vigilant, especially in areas where pedestrians, including those with disabilities, may be present. The fact that the boy had been reported missing just hours before the accident highlights the importance of swift action by law enforcement and the community in locating missing individuals, particularly those who may be vulnerable. As the city continues to work on improving its infrastructure and public safety, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for drivers to take responsibility for their actions and to prioritize the safety of all road users. The sentence handed down to Spangle will be closely watched by the community, which is still grappling with the loss of a young life.
About this story
Original reporting by WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News . The Detroit surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A Warren man will spend at least three years in prison for his role in a hit-and-run that killed a 14-year-old boy with autism.According to authorities, Justin Spangle was driving his car in Roseville on Aug. 18, 2023, when he struck the boy near the border with Warren.The boy had been reported m...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News and curated for The Detroit readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Dane Kelly at WDIV ClickOnDetroit (NBC) - Local News. To learn more about how The Detroit selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Detroit, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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