Traverse City Man Charged in Fatal M-22 Crash Remains Free on Bond
LEELANAU COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) — Kenneth Marotzke, 71, of Traverse City, will stay out of jail on a personal recognizance bond after a hearing on October 8, following his arraignment on multiple charges related to a fatal crash on M-22.
Marotzke faces three felony charges, including Operating While Intoxicated Causing Death, and one misdemeanor charge for having an open alcohol container in his vehicle. The incidents occurred on September 10, when Marotzke allegedly crossed the center line and collided with an SUV driven by 61-year-old Ronald Bellman, who died in the crash. Three passengers, including Bellman's wife, sustained injuries.
Authorities closed a portion of M-22 near Crain Hill Road for about seven hours for the investigation. Marotzke, currently receiving treatment for injuries from the crash, participated in the hearing via video from Grand Traverse Pavilions.
Leelanau County Assistant Prosecutor Daniel Short argued for changes to Marotzke's bond conditions citing the gravity of the charges and requested that he be prohibited from driving entirely. The judge modified the bond to restrict driving but maintained the personal recognizance bond.
A probable cause conference is set for October 15, followed by a preliminary exam on October 22.