A Wayne County resident was killed after driving the wrong way on M-59 in Sterling Heights and causing a five car chain reaction, according to police.
The victim was described as a 50-year-old Hamtramck resident who authorities said suffered fatal injuries from the crash. His name was not released.
According to Sterling Heights police, an emergency dispatcher received a 911 call about 10 p.m. Sunday to alert them about someone driving against traffic. The caller said the driver was heading east in the westbound lanes.
“Very shortly after, a multi-car collision was reported at M-59 west of Mound Road and emergency services responded to the scene,” Lt. Mario Bastianelli said in a news release.
Bastianelli said the initial investigation revealed there were five vehicles involved in the crash.
Police said the suspected wrong-way driver was in a silver Acura that collided head-on with a black Chevy Colorado. Both of these vehicles were then struck again in a chain reaction with three other cars.
The driver of the Acura was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased. One of the secondary drivers, a 24-year-old Holly resident was also transported to the hospital for medical care. That person reportedly suffered serious injuries.
People in the three other vehicles all endured minor injuries, police reported.
All other drivers remained on scene and are cooperated with investigators. Alcohol and drug use are still being investigated for the deceased driver, but are not suspected for any other driver.
Police shut down westbound M-59 from Van Dyke Avenue to Dequindre Road for approximately five 5 hours Sunday night into Monday morning as officers completed their initial investigation and cleared the roadway of debris.
Anyone that may have information about the crash is asked to contact Officer Andre Basin of the Traffic Safety Bureau at 586-446-2920.