JOHNSTON, Iowa — A woman is dead following a motorcycle crash early Saturday, Johnston police said in a Monday press release.
Officers responded to the intersection of Merle Hay Road and NW Beaver Drive at around 12:10 a.m. Saturday to investigate a single-vehicle motorcycle crash.
When they arrived, first responders found a female passenger suffering from "critical injuries," according to the press release. The motorcycle driver, 44-year-old Todd Phillips of Colfax, had left the scene on foot before officers arrived. He was located nearby with the help of a K-9.
Phillips originally faced three charges in connection to the crash and was taken to jail, before being let out on bond.
Johnston police learned the passenger, 46-year-old Michelle Shawhan of Des Moines, died of injuries suffered in the crash after Phillips was released.
Authorities have since amended Phillips' charges to the following offenses:
- Vehicular Homicide
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death
- OWI - 2nd Offense
- Driving While Barred
Officers with the 5th Judicial District are searching for Phillips on a parole violation warrant based on these charges.
Anyone with information on Phillips' whereabouts is asked to call 911 or contact the Polk County Sheriff's Office Communications Office at 515-286-3333.