Cascade Township, MI (April 21, 2025) – Authorities are investigating two separate but similarly tragic crashes that occurred Sunday evening along the same stretch of 36th St SE in Cascade Township, both involving pedestrians struck while standing outside of their vehicles.
The first fatal incident occurred around 10:00 p.m. on 36th St SE east of the I-96 interchange, according to a statement from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office. A 54-year-old Grand Rapids man was standing next to his pickup truck, adjusting a load of scrap metal in the bed, when he was struck by an oncoming vehicle. The truck had been parked on the side of the road.
The driver of the vehicle that struck him—a resident of Marquette—remained on scene and cooperated with deputies. Sadly, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Deputies noted that alcohol is being investigated as a possible factor in this crash, although no official determination has been made.
Less than 90 minutes later, at approximately 11:18 p.m., another deadly crash occurred about one mile west near the intersection of 36th St SE and Raleigh Dr SE. In that case, a 43-year-old man from Burbank, Illinois was outside his semi-truck, which was parked in the center turn lane, when he was struck by a passing vehicle driven by a Grand Rapids resident.
The man sustained critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. Unlike the earlier crash, alcohol is not suspected to have played a role in the second incident.
Deputies have stated that the crashes are being investigated as separate incidents despite occurring within close proximity and time frame. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to both families affected by these tragic and unexpected losses.
Roadside Safety and Vehicle-Pedestrian Crashes in Michigan
The tragic events along 36th St SE highlight the often-overlooked dangers faced by individuals outside their vehicles on or near active roadways. Whether adjusting cargo or performing necessary maintenance, pedestrians in these vulnerable positions are at heightened risk—especially at night and along high-speed corridors.
In the first crash, the victim was beside a parked pickup truck when he was fatally struck. The presence of scrap metal suggests he may have been securing or adjusting an unsecured load. In the second, the victim was outside his semi-truck in a center turn lane—an area not typically intended for extended vehicle parking or pedestrian activity.
Both cases involved drivers who remained on the scene, but they differ in potential contributing factors. Alcohol is being investigated in the first crash, while the second appears to have no impairment-related components. In both instances, low visibility, roadside positioning, and the time of day—late evening hours—likely increased the risk.
These types of fatal pedestrian incidents remain a growing concern. According to recent data from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, pedestrian fatalities continue to trend upward, with a notable portion occurring at night and involving people outside of vehicles.
If you or your loved ones are affected by a roadside crash—whether involving a personal vehicle or a commercial truck—support is available to help navigate the difficult road ahead, including legal, emotional, and logistical guidance.
The tragic back-to-back crashes in Cascade Township are a stark reminder of how quickly roadside situations can become fatal. At Local Accident Reports, our goal is to provide timely information and compassionate support to those affected by these types of incidents. If your family is facing the aftermath of a pedestrian or roadside accident, we’re here to connect you with resources and guidance tailored to your needs. Please reach out today.