BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The preliminary hearing for an Augusta man who was allegedly driving recklessly when he struck and killed Linda McTague in early May got underway yesterday.
Police say Steven Landers was driving a red 1965 Ford Mustang, and had just pulled onto M-37 as McTague and a group of other women in her motorcycle club were passing.
Two members of the group testified yesterday that they saw Landers fishtailing just before he crossed the centerline and struck McTague, who was riding a Harley Davidson, killing her instantly.
Investigators measured an illegally high blood alcohol content in Landers system after the crash, but he claims he was not drinking before the crash, only after to calm his nerves.
McTague was one of the first women in the Air Force to earn the rank of Brigadier General and to command a fighter squadron.
She became active with the Talons Out Honor Flights after her retirement. She was 59.
No date has been set for the resumption of the hearing.
