Wayne County, MI (July 5, 2026) – Three people lost their lives after a late-night collision on eastbound I-94 near Michigan Avenue in Wayne County on Friday, July 3.
According to preliminary information, a semitruck had come to a stop in traffic because of flooding when a passenger vehicle struck the rear of the truck at about 11:44 p.m. Three passengers riding in the car were pronounced dead at the roadside. The driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken into police custody. The truck driver was not hurt.
The eastbound lanes of I-94 remained closed until about 6:21 a.m. on Saturday while emergency units worked on the roadway.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances that led to the fatal crash.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families and friends mourning those who died.
Why Flooded Highways Can Increase the Risk of Rear-End Collisions
Flooded highways can quickly create dangerous driving conditions, especially when traffic slows or stops unexpectedly. Standing water may reduce visibility, increase stopping distances, and make it harder for drivers to recognize vehicles ahead in time to brake safely.
Large trucks and passenger vehicles can also face different challenges in heavy rain or flooding. When traffic comes to a sudden halt, following too closely or traveling too fast for conditions can leave little room to avoid a collision. Investigators frequently review roadway conditions, weather, vehicle positions, and available video evidence to better understand how a serious roadway tragedy unfolded. These findings can help improve traffic safety and provide a clearer picture of the factors that contributed to the loss of life.
