Traverse City Man Remains Free on Bond After Fatal M-22 Crash
LEELANAU COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) — Kenneth Marotzke, 71, from Traverse City, will remain out of jail on a personal recognizance bond following a fatal crash on M-22 on September 10.
Marotzke was arraigned on October 7, facing three felonies and one misdemeanor, including Operating While Intoxicated – Causing Death and Operating Under the Influence – Causing Serious Injury. According to the Leelanau County Prosecutor’s Office, he was granted a $150,000 personal recognizance bond.
The crash occurred on M-22 at Crain Hill Road, shutting down traffic for approximately seven hours. Authorities reported that Marotzke crossed the center line, colliding with an SUV driven by 61-year-old Ronald Bellman, who died as a result of the incident. Three passengers, including Bellman’s wife, Mary, sustained injuries.
At a virtual bond review hearing, Assistant Prosecutor Daniel Short expressed concerns about Marotzke’s ability to drive, citing the severity of the charges. He requested that Marotzke be prohibited from driving altogether. The judge modified the bond to include this stipulation, but the personal recognizance bond remained intact.
Marotzke is currently being treated for injuries sustained in the crash at Grand Traverse Pavilions and is expected to be released on October 8. He faces a probable cause conference on October 15 and a preliminary exam on October 22.