Commerce Man Sentenced After Fatal Motorcycle Crash
In a heart-wrenching case that has shaken the community of Commerce Township, 60-year-old Khim Lal Ghimire has been sentenced to jail time following a tragic traffic accident that claimed the life of a local motorcyclist, Joshua Steven Moomaw. The sentencing took place on Wednesday at the 52-1 District Court, where Judge Robert Bondy imposed a 90-day jail sentence, with the option for Ghimire to serve 20 days of community service instead.
The Incident
The nudge of fate led to this tragic event on a sunny June day, when Joshua, a 40-year-old devoted family man, was riding his beloved 2006 Harley-Davidson motorcycle on Wixom Road. He was patiently waiting to turn left onto Stratford Villa Way, near the mobile home community entrance, when he was suddenly struck from behind by a 2019 Toyota Sienna driven by Ghimire.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, Ghimire’s collision caused severe injuries to Moomaw, who tragically wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time. After enduring eight long days battling his injuries, Moomaw succumbed to his wounds. His wife, who was riding as a passenger, also sustained injuries but thankfully survived the crash, though she too was not wearing a helmet. As for Ghimire, he walked away from the accident without a scratch, which has left many in the community yearning for justice.
Legal Outcomes
Ghimire pleaded no contest last month to a misdemeanor charge of moving violation causing death. The court imposed not only jail time but also a hefty fine of $3,075, along with other court costs and fees. On top of his jail sentence, Ghimire will be on probation for 11 months after completing his time in jail. It was established that neither drugs nor alcohol played a role in the crash, as determined by the Oakland County Sheriff’s crash reconstruction unit.
As Ghimire began his jail time shortly after 11:30 p.m. on November 6, the community has been left to grapple with the emotional aftermath of this unfortunate incident. Moomaw’s family paid tribute to him in his obituary, recalling him as a devoted family man who cherished his time with his wife, Monica, and their children, Lacee and Logan. Together, they shared a passion for riding motorcycles and created many unforgettable memories while riding on open roads.
A Community in Mourning
This tragic accident has sparked conversations about road safety, especially for motorcyclists who are often seen as vulnerable on the road. The lack of helmets worn by both Joshua and his wife has raised awareness about the importance of safety gear while riding. It’s a stark reminder that life can change in an instant, and safety should always be a priority for everyone—drivers and riders alike.
The loss of Joshua Moomaw is keenly felt throughout Commerce Township. His legacy of love and family will undoubtedly continue to resonate within his community. The results of this case may not undo the pain inflicted on Joshua’s family, but they serve as a reminder of the serious consequences of reckless driving and the importance of every person’s responsibility to keep the roads safe for all.
As we reflect on this heartbreaking story, let’s all take a moment to remember Joshua and cherish our loved ones, keeping safety in mind as we travel the roads.
