Lyon Twp, MI (January 2, 2025) – A tragic three-car collision on westbound I-96 early on New Year’s Day claimed the life of a 57-year-old woman from Fenton and left five others with serious injuries. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash and has not ruled out alcohol as a potential factor.
The accident occurred just east of the South Hill Rd overpass. According to reports, a 2016 Ford Explorer rear-ended a Chevrolet Trax that was stopped in the second lane of the highway with its hazard lights activated. The reason the Trax, driven by a 30-year-old man from Ypsilanti, was stopped on the interstate remains unclear.
After striking the Trax, the Explorer spun out, coming to rest facing east in the westbound lanes. A 2018 Jeep Compass then collided head-on with the Explorer, resulting in the death of the Fenton woman, who was a backseat passenger in the Explorer. It has not been confirmed whether she was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The crash also left several others injured. The driver and front-seat passenger of the Explorer are in serious condition, while the 82-year-old husband of the deceased woman is hospitalized in critical condition. The 75-year-old driver of the Jeep Compass is also in critical condition. The Trax driver sustained less severe injuries and is in stable condition at the hospital. Authorities conducted a blood draw on the Trax driver, with results pending.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s crash reconstruction unit is leading the investigation to determine the circumstances of the crash, including whether alcohol was a contributing factor.
Our thoughts go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased victim, as well as to those injured, during this difficult time.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes in Michigan
Michigan highways, such as I-96, are frequently the sites of serious multi-vehicle accidents, particularly during times of heavy traffic or adverse conditions. These collisions can have devastating consequences, as seen in the New Year’s Day crash in Lyon Township.
Victims of multi-vehicle crashes often face severe physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens from medical expenses and other damages. It is essential to seek immediate medical care and consult professionals who can assist in navigating the legal and insurance complexities that often follow such incidents.
Michigan authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining safe driving practices, including avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits, and never driving under the influence. Public education campaigns and stricter traffic law enforcement aim to reduce the number of highway accidents and their resulting tragedies.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact Local Accident Reports for resources and support during this challenging time.