Big Bay fatal hit-and-run trial begins

MARQUETTE — The suspect in a fatal hit-and-run accident from last December has gone to trial in Marquette County Circuit Court.

Michael Nelson, 46, of Big Bay is charged with failure to stop at the scene of an accident when at fault, resulting in death. It’s a 15-year felony.

Jury selection took place this morning. Marquette County Prosecutor Matt Wiese and defense attorney Sarah Henderson both asked the potential jurors if they’d ever been in a car accident. Henderson also asked them how they would react to someone accused of a crime who didn’t speak in his own defense.

Both sides then made their opening statements this afternoon.

Nelson is accused of being the driver in a fatal pedestrian accident on County Road KCB, or Lighthouse Road, in Big Bay. Robin Rahoi, 54, of Big Bay died in the accident, and the vehicle left the scene.

Nelson is out of jail on $150,000 bond.