Woman killed in Vero Beach crash, suspect arrested

A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with a tragic car collision that resulted in the death of 26-year-old Crystina Atkinson back in March. The Vero Beach Police Department announced via social media that Michael A. Slaughter Jr. was apprehended on Wednesday and is now facing charges related to the incident, including vehicular homicide, leaving the scene of a deadly accident, and driving with a suspended or canceled license that led to a fatality. It was revealed that Slaughter was in a romantic relationship with Atkinson, and his DNA was discovered on the airbag of the vehicle, which had deployed during the crash. The family of Crystina Atkinson spoke with WPTV about their tragic loss and their search for closure. The incident occurred on March 30 when law enforcement responded to a car crash in the 3700 block of 43rd Avenue where Atkinson was found deceased in the passenger's seat. The impact of the collision was so severe that it shattered a utility pole and caused extensive damage to the car's passenger side. Atkinson was identified as the vehicle's owner, however, the driver had fled the scene. The arrest was made with the cooperation of Vero Beach police and deputies from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. Presently, Slaughter is detained at the Indian River County Jail with a bond set at $1,750,000.