Monroe Co., MI (July 27, 2026) – One teenager died, and another was critically injured early Saturday, July 25, after an ATV and an SUV collided on Bacon Road. The crash occurred south of Todd Road as the SUV was pulling out of a driveway.
The four-wheeler carried two teenagers, ages 14 and 17. Both were thrown from the ATV during the collision.
The 14-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 17-year-old was taken to a Toledo hospital and remained in critical condition. Two people inside the SUV were not injured. The cause of the crash remains under review.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family mourning this loss and hope the injured teenager makes a speedy recovery.
Why ATV Riders Are Vulnerable During Collisions
ATVs provide little protection when they come into contact with larger vehicles. Riders are exposed, and the lack of seat belts or an enclosed passenger space can increase the chance of being thrown during a sudden force.
Size and weight differences also affect injury severity. An SUV is much heavier than a four-wheeler, so even a low-speed collision can place significant strain on an ATV rider’s body.
Road design, visibility, travel speed, and the angle at which vehicles meet can influence the outcome. Helmets and protective clothing may reduce certain risks, but they cannot prevent every injury. Medical teams may also monitor riders for head trauma, internal bleeding, broken bones, or other harm that is not immediately visible.
