Crime & Safety
Michigan Fatal Bicycle Crash: Former Lawmaker Dies on Path
Orion Township, MI — November 14, 2026 A former Michigan state lawmaker has died following a tragic bicycle crash in Oakland County, prompting an investigation into a construction related pipe extendi
By Mara Ellison · 2026-11-14T11:56:37.154Z
Orion Township, MI — November 14, 2026 A former Michigan state lawmaker has died following a tragic bicycle crash in Oakland County, prompting an investigation into a construction related pipe extending across a pedestrian pathway in Orion Township.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff 's Office, former state Rep. John Reilly was riding his bicycle Wednesday, Nov. 11, when he struck a large bypass pipe along the pedestrian safety path near the post office on Lapeer Road.
The incident occurred around 6 a.m., when the Orion Township Fire Department was dispatched to a reported medical emergency involving a bicyclist.
Bystanders immediately began performing CPR before an Oakland County sheriff's deputy arrived and continued lifesaving efforts.
Orion Township firefighter paramedics subsequently provided advanced life support before transporting Reilly to McLaren Oakland Hospital in Pontiac.
Despite those efforts, Reilly died following the crash.
Investigators identified the pipe as part of an ongoing sewer lining project associated with the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner's Office. The work was being conducted within the Michigan Department of Transportation right of way.
Sheriff Michael Bouchard expressed condolences to Reilly's family and acknowledged those who attempted to save his life.
"This is a heartbreaking tragedy, and our deepest condolences go out to Mr. Reilly's family, friends and all those impacted by this devastating incident," Bouchard said.
The sheriff also thanked residents and emergency responders for their immediate actions.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office Crash Reconstruction Unit continues examining conditions at the scene and any potential contributing factors.
Authorities emphasized that no final determinations have been made regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The investigation remains active, with additional information expected as investigators work to determine exactly what happened.
For Oakland County residents, the tragedy raises questions about safety conditions around active infrastructure projects and pathways shared by bicyclists and pedestrians.