Blood and Urine samples were obtained from David Sterling and submitted to the Illinois State Police Crime Lab for analysis. He was processed into the Madison County Jail but released pending toxicological analysis, as well further investigations into the contributing factors that led to the accident. The Metro East Crash Assistance Team (M.E.C.A.T.) was activated to conduct an accident reconstruction investigation.

On Nov. 28, 2018, the investigation findings were presented to a representative of the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. A Criminal Information was prepared by the State’s Attorney’s Office and signed by the Honorable Judge Schroeder, charging Sterling with:

• Aggravated Driving With a Blood Alcohol Level of .08 or More Resulting in Death 
• Aggravated Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Resulting in Death
• Reckless Homicide
• Unlawful Use of an Electronic Device

The Unlawful Use of an Electronic Device relates to evidence developed in the investigation indicating Sterling was actively using a cell phone at the time of the accident.

Sterling turned himself into the Madison County Sheriff’s Office Wednesday evening, after the charges were issued, and is being held in lieu of $100,000.00 Bond.

ABOUT THE VICTIM OF DAVID STERLING’S BOOZE CRUISE:

FROM HER OBITUARY: Markia Ivy was a single mother raising her 12-yr old son, Malik. She was very loving, caring and devoted to her son. She was very active in her son’s life Spiritually, Emotionally, Academically & Socially. Markia was Malik’s best cheerleader on and off the field but especially when he played baseball with the Orange Sox Baseball Team of Edwardsville where he is an outstanding player of several positions.

Markia graduated from Edwardsville Senior High School in 2001. She was a member of The Church of God in Christ Congregational in Edwardsville, IL where she served in several capacities in the past. Markia was a very soft-spoken, gentle-hearted person. She was the proud business owner of Euphoric Beauty, a beauty supply store, located in Edwardsville.

Markia loved spending time with her son and supporting him in any way she could. She enjoyed hanging out with family & friends, singing, riding her motorcycle, working, fishing, camping and spending time with their Boxer, Miko Patrick. She was a very outgoing person and enjoyed making great memories for and with family and friends. Markia had a special love for children and they all loved her.

Markia is survived by one son, Malik Allen of Edwardsville; her parents, Annie (Willie) Jones of Edwardsville, IL and Eddie (Odessa) Bonner of Washington Park, IL; her maternal grandmother, Eloise Lewis of East St. Louis, IL; thirteen siblings, DeAndre’ (Makeila) Lewis of Glen Carbon, IL, Carmetta Suarez of Jennings, MO, DeAngelo Lewis of Edwardsville, IL, Mario (Kameka) Ivy of Shiloh, IL, Edward (Theresa) Burns of Kansas City, MO, Lettica (Herman) Sanders of Gary, IN, Kimbella (Douglass) Terrell, Eddie (Carrie) Bonner Jr., Christina (John) Middlebrooks, Willie Springer, Betty (Jeffrey) Harris, Cornelius Bonner, Meagan (Jarrett) Sanford, all of East St. Louis, IL; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
GO FUND ME ACCOUNT FOR HER SON
To show support, Coach Sean McMeen, of the Orange Sox Baseball Team, has organized a “GoFundMe” Account. Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill owner, Harry Parker, held a benefit at the Edwardsville establishment on Wednesday, July 18. All monies from the “GoFundMe” Account and a portion of the proceeds from the Gulf Shores Fundraiser will be used to assist with Malik’s needs as he is only 12 yrs old. He is currently residing with his maternal grandparents, Annie & Willie Jones. During these difficult times, your prayers and support are greatly appreciated.