A morning jog turned tragic for a beloved Detroit minister whose dedication to community service spanned over five decades.
According to Fox News, Pastor Stephen Singleton, 72, succumbed to injuries after being struck by a vehicle allegedly driven by an undocumented Colombian national who ran a red light while the pastor was using a crosswalk in Rochester Hills.
The incident occurred on November 3 when Singleton, wearing reflective gear during his routine morning run, was hit by a 2013 Ford Focus at an intersection. The impact was so severe that Singleton was thrown onto the windshield, causing extensive injuries, including multiple broken bones, organ damage, and traumatic brain injury.
Singleton's 53-year marriage to his wife Teri and his extensive family connections highlighted his deep community roots. His role as a Pastoral Minister for the Archdiocese of Detroit demonstrated his commitment to serving others through both religious guidance and practical assistance.
The pastor's humanitarian work extended beyond his religious duties. He participated in search and rescue operations following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, showcasing his dedication to helping others in times of crisis.
His family emphasized his inclusive approach to ministry, noting that he treated everyone as family and regularly provided support to those in need. Singleton's athletic pursuits included completing major marathons and participating in charitable bike rides.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the 28-year-old driver entered the United States illegally and was released pending a future hearing. Despite lacking proper immigration documentation, the driver possessed a valid foreign driver's license, which Michigan recognizes as legitimate identification.
Teri Singleton expressed her distress about the situation, saying:
I had to sit and watch my husband of 53 years die in front of me, and then to know that the person who did this is walking around is very difficult to deal with.
The case was presented to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office on Friday for review. As of Monday, no arrests had been made, and authorities continue to evaluate potential charges against the driver.
The Singleton family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and provide support for Teri Singleton, who is partially disabled and relies on her husband for daily assistance. The campaign details highlight Stephen's extensive community involvement and charitable work.
The pastor's impact on his community was substantial. He officiated hundreds of funerals, often helping families who couldn't afford services, and regularly participated in homeless outreach programs. His family described his philosophy with the following statement from their GoFundMe page: "His real passion was just pure love for his fellow man."
The tragic death of Pastor Stephen Singleton on November 8, 2024, occurred after he was struck by a vehicle while jogging in Rochester Hills, Michigan. The incident involved an undocumented Colombian national who allegedly ran a red light while Singleton was using a designated crosswalk.
The case remains under review by the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office, with potential charges pending against the driver who held a valid foreign driver's license. Meanwhile, the Singleton family seeks support for funeral costs and living expenses for his widow, as they work to preserve the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to serving others through religious ministry and humanitarian work.
