Camden Township, MI (May 29, 2026) – A moped rider was seriously hurt following a two-vehicle crash on W Camden Rd near Bishop Rd in Camden Township on Thursday evening.
According to the Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Office, the collision was reported at approximately 8:54 p.m. Investigators said Zachary Gaffney, 38, of Angola, Indiana, was traveling east on W Camden Rd when his moped crossed the centerline and struck a westbound Hyundai Elantra GLS.
Gaffney sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo for treatment. The driver of the Hyundai, Valerie Donahue, 64, of Fremont, Indiana, was evaluated at the roadway but did not require hospital care.
The crash occurred near Bishop Rd, west of Camden. No additional injuries were reported in the initial information released.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision. We are keeping the injured rider in our thoughts and wishing him a successful recovery.
Why Centerline-Crossing Crashes Can Lead to Severe Injuries
Crashes involving a vehicle crossing the centerline are often serious because they can place two vehicles directly in each other’s path. With little time to react, drivers and riders may be unable to avoid contact, increasing the likelihood of significant injuries.
For moped riders, the risk can be especially high. Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, riders have limited protection from the forces generated during a roadway collision. Even when safety equipment is used, the exposed nature of a moped can leave riders vulnerable to severe harm.
After a centerline-crossing collision, investigators typically review roadway evidence, vehicle damage, witness statements, and environmental conditions. They may also examine whether factors such as visibility, driver actions, or mechanical issues contributed to the sequence of events. This information helps clarify how the crash occurred and why injuries resulted.
