Crime & Safety
Oakland County, MI Crash: Driver Distraction Suspected, Woman Critical
Pontiac, MI – A 42 year old woman is in grave condition after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Baldwin Avenue in Pontiac on Thursday evening, Nov. 12. Investigators say possible driver distrac
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-11-13T16:01:32.166Z
Pontiac, MI – A 42 year old woman is in grave condition after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Baldwin Avenue in Pontiac on Thursday evening, Nov. 12. Investigators say possible driver distraction and nonworking streetlights may have contributed to the serious pedestrian crash in Oakland County, north of Detroit.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff 's Office, the collision occurred at approximately 6:09 p.m. Thursday near the intersection of Baldwin and Yale avenues.
Investigators said a 25 year old woman from Holly was driving a 2012 Kia Forte southbound on Baldwin Avenue when her vehicle struck the pedestrian, who was walking eastbound across the roadway.
The injured woman was pushing a cart containing numerous personal belongings when the collision occurred.
Oakland County sheriff's deputies and STAR EMS personnel responded and provided emergency medical assistance before transporting the pedestrian to McLaren Oakland Hospital in Pontiac.
Authorities described the woman's condition as grave. At the time of the initial investigation, officials had not located or notified her family.
Preliminary findings revealed that streetlights near the crash scene were not functioning, leaving the roadway without its intended illumination.
Investigators also identified possible driver distraction as a contributing factor.
Speed, alcohol and drugs do not appear to have contributed to the collision , according to the sheriff's office. Investigators confirmed the driver was wearing a seat belt.
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office Crash Reconstruction Unit is examining the circumstances surrounding the crash, with assistance from the department's Drone Unit.
Aerial mapping and crash scene documentation are being used to support the investigation.
Authorities have not announced any charges or citations in connection with the collision.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine exactly what led to the pedestrian being struck.