Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash on I-96 Near Webberville: Four Dead, 17 Injured

Casket adorned with a bouquet of red roses.

A devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 96 near Webberville, Michigan, leaves four dead and 17 injured, raising concerns about highway safety protocols.

At a Glance

  • Semitruck collided with stopped vehicles during utility maintenance, killing four and injuring 17
  • Victims include three Lansing family members and a Carson City resident
  • Both directions of I-96 closed indefinitely for investigation and structural assessment
  • Incident occurred during planned utility work, raising questions about safety measures

Tragic Collision Claims Four Lives

A routine utility maintenance operation on Interstate 96 near Webberville, Michigan, turned into a scene of tragedy late Saturday night when a westbound semi-truck failed to stop for halted traffic. The resulting collision involved over a dozen vehicles, claiming the lives of four Americans and leaving 17 others injured. The devastating crash has sent shockwaves through the local community and raised serious questions about highway safety protocols during maintenance work.

According to authorities, the semi-truck driver apparently did not notice the traffic backup in time to avoid the collision. The impact triggered a chain reaction, resulting in multiple vehicle fires and widespread destruction. Among the deceased were three members of a Lansing family – a 20-year-old female, a 43-year-old female, and a 47-year-old male – as well as a 29-year-old man from Carson City.

Emergency Response and Ongoing Investigation

The crash prompted an immediate and extensive emergency response. Multiple teams were deployed to the scene, working tirelessly to aid the injured and secure the area. Seventeen individuals, including the semi-truck driver, were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Remarkably, no utility workers involved in the maintenance operation were harmed during the incident.

“It appears the driver of the semi-truck did not see the backup and could not stop his vehicle in time,” stated Michigan State Police.

As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, both directions of Interstate 96 remain closed indefinitely. This extended closure is necessary not only for a thorough examination of the crash site but also to assess potential structural damage to the highway infrastructure. The Michigan Highway 52 overpass is also closed and may remain so through Monday as a precautionary measure.

Impact on Local Community and Transportation

The closure of this major transportation artery has significant implications for the region. Local authorities have established alternative routes for commuters, but the impact on regional commerce and daily life is expected to be substantial. Emergency services are maintaining an enhanced presence in the affected area to manage traffic and ensure public safety.

This tragic event has reignited discussions about the safety protocols in place during highway maintenance operations. DTE Energy, responsible for the overhead power line work that necessitated the traffic stoppage, routinely conducts such maintenance during off-peak hours to minimize disruption. However, this incident underscores the critical importance of robust safety measures and clear communication to prevent such catastrophic outcomes.

As the community grapples with the loss of life and the long-term implications of this crash, transportation officials are evaluating existing safety protocols. The goal is to prevent similar tragedies in the future and ensure the safety of all motorists during necessary maintenance work on our nation’s highways.

Sources:

  1. Michigan police say 4 killed, 17 injured after semitruck crashes into vehicles stuck in traffic
  2. 4 Killed, 17 Injured After Semitruck Crashes Into Vehicles Stuck in Traffic: Michigan Police
  3. 4 dead, 17 injured after man driving semitruck crashes into vehicles in traffic near Lansing

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