GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — New court documents are showing what led up to a driver allegedly hitting a motorcyclist twice on Division in September and leaving the scene.
The crash happened on September 2, 2023 just before 10:30pm on Division Avenue SE near Plaster Creek Drive in Grand Rapids.
Police said a motorcyclist was hit from behind by the driver of a Chevrolet Express van and the van continued North on Division.
A Grand Rapids Police sergeant, who was on his way to the scene, saw the Chevy van with fresh damage to the front and quickly recognized it matched the description of the car involved in the crash.
The sergeant initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver, Justino Bautista. He said he noticed Bautista had blood shot and glassy eyes and open alcohol containers around him.
Bautista was ordered out of the van and placed under arrest when he turned to the sergeant and said, "I have one question, is the guy alright?"
The driver of the motorcycle, identified as Albert Bowman, was seriously injured in the crash and was hit twice before Bautista left the scene.
Investigation by police found that Bautista had been driving 69 MPH in a 35 MPH zone three seconds prior to the crash.
Video obtained from the Rapid Bus Stop showed the motorcycle go down and slide while Albert rolled to his feet and was hit again. The video also shows Bautista drive away from the scene, making no attempt to stop.
The driver's blood alcohol level came back as .183, more than twice the legal limit.
Bowman's injuries were extensive and severe including multiple fractured bones and would take a long time to recover. When police were able to finally interview Bowman, they say he was unable to remember the incident and may be suffering from brain damage or delirium.
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