DETROIT (WXYZ) — "This was an honest mistake," said Jerran Brodaus about his brother who was killed after hitting a curb and losing control of his ATV in Wednesday night's crash on Detroit's west side.
Loved ones told 7 Action News that 38-year-old Victor Davis has been riding ATVs for years and has taught others how to as well.
"My brother was a great guy. He took care of his kids," said Jerran who called his brother "an all around good guy."
Detroit Police are still investigating the deadly crash, but said Victor did not have a valid driver's license. And, according to the Secretary of State, Victor also had a lengthy driving record with multiple suspensions and several offenses related to alcohol and careless driving.
But one thing is clear, Victor Davis was loved by many for what he did in his personal life and in his family's businesses, often allowing senior citizens to pay him later when they could not afford work needed on their vehicles.
"He learned right here on Seven Mile how to serve the community while he earned his living," said Lawrence Burks who began working for Victor's late father and uncle in the late 80s when they first started the string of family businesses that include gas stations, a collision shop and towing service. "He wasn't the person to take advantage of anybody."
The death of Victor Davis comes just a day after Detroit police said they'd be cracking down on ATV riders because using them in the city is illegal.
Victor's family and friends said he was never one to cause havoc for other motorists.
"I's not to go out and be crazy and act a fool," said one of Victor's cousins Ronald Lacey. "It's for us to have fun."
Detroit Police are still investigating the deadly ATV crash that appeared to only involve the one vehicle.
