Delta County, MI (June 24, 2026) – An 81-year-old Escanaba man and a teenage driver were hurt following a two-vehicle collision on US-2 in Delta County on Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Delta County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the crash near Highland Golf Course along US-2. A preliminary investigation found that the Escanaba man was driving westbound and had stopped on the highway to make a left turn into the golf course.
Investigators said a westbound vehicle driven by a 17-year-old female from Gladstone then struck the rear of the turning vehicle. Both drivers were taken to OSF St. Francis Hospital for treatment.
The 81-year-old man later died from his injuries at the hospital. The 17-year-old driver was treated for minor injuries.
US-2 was closed for about four hours following the wreck, with traffic directed onto alternate routes until the roadway reopened later in the afternoon.
Investigators continue to review the circumstances that led to the fatal collision. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the man who lost his life.
Why Rear-End Collisions Can Be Dangerous Near Turning Vehicles
Rear-end collisions often occur when one vehicle slows or stops, and a following driver is unable to react in time. These crashes can happen on highways and rural roads where vehicles may be traveling at higher speeds.
Drivers preparing to make left turns can be especially vulnerable because they may need to slow significantly or stop while waiting for a safe opportunity to turn. Following motorists must remain attentive and maintain enough distance to react to changing traffic conditions.
Reviews of these crashes typically include vehicle positions, roadway design, visibility, speed, and driver actions prior to contact. Examining these factors can help explain how the collision happened and provide a clearer understanding of the sequence of events.
