Orion Township, MI (April 13, 2026) – Two people died, and two others were critically injured following a head-on crash on Saturday afternoon, April 11, in Orion Township.
The collision happened around 1:11 p.m. near Lapeer Road and Greenshield Road. According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, a 63-year-old man was driving a Ford Fiesta northbound on Lapeer Road when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle left the roadway, crossed the median, and entered the southbound lanes.
The Ford then struck a Lincoln MKX head-on. The driver of the Lincoln, identified as 86-year-old Alfred Henry Young of Rochester Hills, was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
His wife, 86-year-old Florence Anna Young, was also transported to a hospital and died the following day. The Ford driver and his 60-year-old wife, both from Hazel Park, were taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Emergency units responded to the scene. Officials said alcohol, drugs, and speed do not appear to be factors in the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our condolences go out to the families affected by this tragic incident.
Why Head-On Median Crossovers Can Lead to Severe Crashes
When a vehicle crosses a median and enters oncoming traffic, the risk of a head-on collision increases significantly. These crashes often occur suddenly, leaving little time for other drivers to react or avoid impact.
Even when speed is not a factor, the force generated in a direct collision between two vehicles can be severe. Occupants may suffer serious injuries due to the combined energy of both vehicles at impact.
Roadway design, driver awareness, and sudden mechanical or medical issues can all contribute to median departures. Investigators often examine multiple factors to understand how these rare but serious events occur.