Manchester Township, MI (July 1, 2026) – A motorcyclist was killed, and a woman suffered serious injuries in a collision on Monday evening at the intersection of Austin Road and Sharon Road in Washtenaw County.
The Michigan State Police said the crash occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. Troopers from the Brighton Post responded to reports of a collision involving a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a Buick Lucerne.
According to the preliminary investigation, a 49-year-old man from Canton was riding the Harley-Davidson westbound on Austin Road through the intersection when a 68-year-old woman from Addison, who was traveling eastbound, attempted to turn left onto Sharon Road. Investigators said the Buick driver failed to yield to the motorcycle and turned into its path, causing the collision.
The motorcyclist was thrown from the motorcycle and was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of his family.
The driver of the Buick sustained serious injuries and was transported to Henry Ford Jackson Hospital. Authorities said she is expected to survive.
Investigators have not determined whether alcohol or drugs were factors in the collision. The crash remains under investigation by the Michigan State Police. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the motorcyclist who lost his life and wish the injured driver a full recovery.
Why Left-Turn Collisions Are Especially Dangerous for Motorcyclists
Intersections are among the most common locations for serious motorcycle crashes, particularly when a vehicle turns left across the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Because motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, drivers may misjudge their speed or fail to see them before turning.
Investigators typically examine vehicle positions, traffic controls, sight distance, witness statements, and any available video footage to determine how the collision occurred. They also review physical evidence from the roadway and the vehicles to reconstruct the sequence of events and establish whether any traffic laws were violated.
