A tragic incident in Milwaukee has left a community mourning and seeking justice after a hit-and-run crash claimed the life of a beloved pastor’s wife and left her grandson injured. Beverly Fair, 70, was killed when a speeding vehicle collided with the SUV she was in on January 4, 2025. The accused, 30-year-old Donte Miller, has been charged with second-degree reckless homicide and hit-and-run resulting in death.
The crash occurred near 34th and Lloyd, shortly after Beverly and her grandson, Jordan, had visited a relative. Beverly’s life was tragically cut short, while Jordan survived but required hospitalization. His mother, Shyla Deacon, expressed her gratitude for her son’s survival, calling it a miracle. "With my mother’s injuries, the fact that he walked out of the hospital, I’m a firm believer it was a miracle that he survived that car accident," she stated in an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
According to reports, Miller was driving at speeds between 60 and 80 miles per hour in a residential area when the collision occurred. Eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage revealed the harrowing moment of impact, with debris scattering across the street and into nearby yards. The aftermath of the crash left a chaotic scene, with car parts littering the area and a community in shock.
Law enforcement had initially attempted to stop Miller’s vehicle earlier that day due to its reckless speed and missing front license plate. However, they lost sight of him before discovering the crash site. After abandoning his vehicle, Miller fled on foot, leaving behind a running engine and a cellphone. Investigators later linked him to the abandoned vehicle through a VIN check, revealing it was associated with Miller, who had a history of run-ins with the law, including a previous police chase.
Further investigations unearthed documents and car-related papers in Miller’s apartment, solidifying the case against him. DNA evidence collected from the vehicle indicated Miller was indeed the driver at the time of the crash. Notably, he did not possess a valid driver’s license, having had his privileges suspended since September 2024 due to prior incidents.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, many are calling for justice for Beverly Fair and her family. The case highlights the urgent need for accountability on the roads and serves as a somber reminder of the impact reckless driving can have on innocent lives.
In the wake of such tragedies, it’s crucial for communities to come together and support one another. Organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) work tirelessly to raise awareness about the dangers of reckless behavior behind the wheel. For those seeking more information on how to get involved or support victims of similar incidents, visit MADD’s official site.
As we pray for the Fair family during this difficult time, let us also reflect on the importance of safety and responsibility on our roads. Each life lost is a reminder of the fragility of existence and the deep connections we share within our communities.