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Driver Charged In Boy's Hit-And-Run Death

DETROIT (WWJ) - Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged a 47-year-old man in connection with the hit-and-run death of an 8-year-old boy.

Alphornso Butler will be arraigned in 36th District Court Friday afternoon on one count of leaving the scene of an injury accident causing death.

Darrin Wilhite was killed while riding his bike with friends Tuesday night, along West Chicago at Abington, on the city's west side.

According to witnesses, the driver of the red SUV involved did not stop — dragging the boy for a block, and his bicycle for nearly a mile — with sparks flying underneath the vehicle.

Darrin's step-father, Calais Kimling, said family members cannot understand how the driver could continue on his way after hitting the boy,

"We haven't gotten no detail on why or what he was thinking or anything," Kimling said.

Kimling called Darrin a good, honest, and respectful kid who loved to ride his bike and play football. "He just didn't deserve to die this early," Kimling said.

Butler turned himself in to police Wednesday morning and remained in custody on Thursday.

He faces up to 5 years in prison if convicted.

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