A traffic crash near the Shelbyville exit (No. 59) on the U.S.-131 expressway Wednesday morning caused multiple motorists’ injuries, including one fatality.
The crash occurred just before 5:30 a.m. in the southbound lane of the freeway.
The Allegan County Sheriff’s Department responded and deputies said they believe speed was a factor.
Steve Damveld of the sheriff’s office said the crash, involving two vehicles led to five victims being transported to area hospitals for various non-life threatening injuries.
“One patient was found unresponsive on scene,” Damveled said. “This patient was able to get a pulse back with lifesaving efforts by first responders, but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries while en route to the hospital.
“Preliminary investigation shows speed was a factor in this accident. The names of all parties involved are being withheld at this time due to the investigation being on going and notifications that need to be made to family members.”
US-131 south bound from the exit No. 61 since has been opened back up for normal travel.
Emergency personnel from the Wayland EMS, Plainwell EMS, Life EMS, Wayland FD, Martin FD, Hopkins FD, Wayland PD, Gun Lake Tribal PD, Allegan County Accident Reconstruction Team, MDOT, Allegan Central Dispatch and Allegan County Emergency Management were summoned to the scene.
Michigan Department of Transportation officials said southbound US-131 was shut down for hours, starting at exit 61 to M-179.
What is winter going to bring if some can’t drive on dry pavement ?
And for the one who hit bridge . It’s drivers job to know his height ! Not DOT to fix all these bridges .
Ok I’m off my soap box !