Woodhull Township, Michigan — A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Sunday night left a 43-year-old Illinois man dead on Interstate 69, according to the Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were called to the scene at approximately 6:45 p.m. near the Colby Lake Road overpass in Woodhull Township, Michigan.
Investigators say the collision involved three vehicles — a Ram 1500 pickup, a Kia K4 sedan, and a Mitsubishi Outlander SUV — that were stopped or partially stopped along the south shoulder of the westbound lanes.
Pickup Truck Swerves to Avoid Stopped Vehicles
The crash began when the Ram 1500 approached the two parked vehicles. Police reported that the Mitsubishi Outlander had struck a deer, forcing both it and the Kia K4 to pull over for safety.
In an attempt to avoid hitting the stopped vehicles, the pickup driver swerved sharply to the left, but the maneuver tragically failed. The Ram struck a guardrail, then collided with both the Kia and the Mitsubishi.
Victim Was Standing Outside His Vehicle
Officials confirmed that the Mitsubishi driver — a 43-year-old man from Illinois — was outside his SUV at the moment of impact. He was struck and suffered fatal injuries. Emergency personnel pronounced him deceased at the scene, as per WILX.
Authorities have not yet publicly released his name pending notification of family.
Two Injured and Hospitalized
The Kia’s driver and passenger were transported to a nearby hospital with possible injuries, according to the sheriff’s office. No update has yet been provided regarding their conditions.
The driver of the Ram remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. There was no immediate indication of alcohol or reckless driving as a cause beyond the evasive maneuver.
Roadway Closures and Ongoing Investigation
The crash resulted in significant traffic disruption on I-69:
- Eastbound lanes reopened shortly after the crash
- Westbound lanes remained closed until approximately 1 a.m. Monday
Deputies and crash reconstruction experts continue reviewing evidence to determine whether charges may be filed.
Deer-Related Crashes a Rising Concern
Michigan law enforcement regularly warns motorists to remain alert for deer crossings, especially in the fall months when collisions dramatically increase. Crashes often occur at dusk, just as this fatal incident did.
Authorities emphasize the following safety reminders:
- Brake firmly, don’t swerve, when a deer appears
- Pull over fully and activate hazard lights if involved in a collision
- Remain inside your vehicle until rescue units or police arrive
- Always watch for additional deer, as they travel in groups
Sheriff’s Office Statement
The Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office has expressed condolences to the victim’s family and urges anyone who witnessed the crash to contact investigators.
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