A devastating truck crash on Interstate 96 in Michigan late Saturday night resulted in the deaths of four individuals and left 17 others injured. The incident occurred around 11:42 p.m. near the M-52 highway, where numerous vehicles were halted due to utility work on power lines.
Key Takeaways
- Four fatalities confirmed, including three relatives from Lansing.
- Seventeen individuals sustained injuries, with several transported to local hospitals.
- The crash involved approximately 15 vehicles, including a semi-truck.
- Westbound I-96 remains closed for investigation and cleanup.
Incident Overview
The Michigan State Police reported that the semi-truck, traveling westbound, failed to notice the traffic backup and could not stop in time. The truck struck multiple vehicles in the left lane, leading to a fiery collision that engulfed several cars in flames.
The victims included a 29-year-old man from Carson City driving a Ford F-150, and three relatives from Lansing—a 20-year-old woman, a 43-year-old woman, and a 47-year-old man—who were in a Chevy Trax.
Response and Investigation
Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, with 17 individuals, including the truck driver, being transported to Sparrow and McLaren Hospitals in Lansing for treatment. The driver of the semi-truck was also hospitalized, but details regarding his identity remain undisclosed.
Authorities have stated that the westbound lanes of I-96 will remain closed indefinitely as they conduct a thorough investigation and assess the structural integrity of the M-52 overpass, which was affected by the fire.
Traffic Conditions
The crash occurred shortly after state police had reopened the westbound lanes of I-96, which had been closed earlier for utility work. Traffic was temporarily halted to allow DTE Energy crews to install power lines across the expressway.
Michigan State Police emphasized that the driver of the semi-truck likely did not see the stopped traffic in time to react appropriately.
Community Impact
This tragic event has left the local community in shock, as families mourn the loss of their loved ones. The Michigan Department of Transportation is working closely with state police to ensure the safety of the area and to prevent future incidents.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic regulations, especially in construction zones.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers present on the road and the importance of maintaining awareness while driving, particularly in areas where traffic conditions may change suddenly.
Sources
- 4 Killed, 17 Injured After Semi-Truck Crashes into Vehicles in Michigan, People.com.
- 4 killed, 17 injured in Michigan after semi crashes into vehicles – NBC Chicago, NBC Chicago.
- 4 dead, 17 injured in Michigan after semi crashes into stopped traffic, WTXL ABC 27 Tallahassee News.
- 4 dead, 17 injured in massive crash on I-96 in Ingham County, WILX-TV.
- 3 Lansing residents among 4 killed in I-96 crash near Webberville, Lansing State Journal.
