Pittsfield Township, Michigan – A three-vehicle crash Monday evening in Pittsfield Township left one man dead and another driver critically injured, prompting a multi-hour road closure and an ongoing investigation.
According to Pittsfield Township Public Safety, officers were dispatched around 6:35 p.m. Monday to Platt Road south of Ellsworth Road for reports of a serious traffic crash involving multiple vehicles.
Investigators determined that a northbound Lexus crossed the centerline on Platt Road and struck a southbound Jeep, based on witness statements and preliminary findings. A third vehicle was also involved after being struck by debris from the collision. No injuries were reported in that vehicle.
The driver of the Lexus, identified as a 44-year-old man from Saline, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead while being transported to the hospital. The driver of the Jeep, a 59-year-old woman from Monroe, was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Due to significant vehicle damage, extrication efforts took approximately one hour, according to the Ann Arbor Fire Department. Units responding included Battalion Chief 1, Engine 1-6, Engine 1-4, and Tower 1-1.
Platt Road between Ellsworth Road and Platt Lane was closed for several hours while emergency crews responded and investigators processed the scene, affecting evening commuters in the area.
Authorities said alcohol or controlled substances do not appear to be factors at this time, though those possibilities will continue to be evaluated as the investigation progresses.
The Pittsfield Township Police Crash Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Pittsfield Police.
