Aetna Township, MI (April 6, 2026) – A serious multi-vehicle crash took place early on Monday morning, April 6, on northbound US-131 in Aetna Township. The incident was reported around 4:45 a.m. and involved three vehicles along the highway.
According to initial details, a Ford Explorer was parked on the shoulder when it was struck by a Ford passenger car. That car then came to rest in the roadway and was hit by a Chevrolet Equinox. The Ford passenger car later ended up on its side along the left shoulder.
Three people were hurt in the crash. The driver of the Ford Explorer, a 46-year-old woman from Springfield, and the driver of the Chevrolet Equinox, a 64-year-old man from Grand Haven, were both taken to a hospital with serious injuries. The 33-year-old woman driving the Ford passenger car, from Howard City, suffered life-threatening injuries and was also taken to a hospital.
When emergency units arrived, passersby were already helping and providing first aid to those involved. One of the drivers was reportedly pinned inside a vehicle before being freed.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they receive care and begin the healing process.
How Parked Vehicles on Highways Can Lead to Chain-Reaction Crashes
Vehicles stopped along highway shoulders can create unexpected hazards for approaching drivers. Even when pulled off the main lanes, limited visibility, high speeds, and early morning conditions can reduce reaction time. A single impact can quickly turn into a chain-reaction event involving multiple vehicles.
When a vehicle comes to rest in a travel lane after an initial crash, the risk increases significantly. Drivers approaching the scene may not have enough time to slow down or change lanes safely. This can lead to secondary impacts, which are often more severe.
Vehicle position, lighting conditions, and traffic flow all influence how these crashes unfold. Incidents involving multiple vehicles often result in more serious injuries due to repeated impacts and shifting positions on the roadway.
