Mecosta Twp., MI (July 30, 2026) – A 31-year-old Howard City man died on Wednesday, July 29, after a vehicle struck him on northbound U.S. Highway 131. The collision was reported shortly before 5:00 p.m. near mile marker 135.
The 71-year-old Muskegon man driving the vehicle was checked by emergency units and released. The pedestrian was pronounced dead following the accident.
Northbound U.S. Highway 131 was temporarily closed while the roadway was examined. It later reopened to traffic. Investigators continue working to determine the cause of the crash.
We offer our sincere condolences to the deceased man’s family and friends.
The Dangers of Pedestrian Crashes on High-Speed Roads
Highways carry vehicles at greater speeds than most city streets. A pedestrian has no protective frame, seat belt, or airbag, leaving the body exposed to direct force during contact.
Drivers may also have difficulty seeing someone near a highway because they do not expect foot traffic in active lanes. Curves, hills, surrounding vehicles, sunlight, and roadside shadows can further reduce visibility and reaction time.
Vehicle speed, size, and contact angle can affect the severity of head, chest, spinal, and internal trauma. A person may also strike the pavement after the first point of contact. Medical teams usually perform detailed evaluations because some forms of internal harm are not immediately visible. Highway closures may be needed to provide working space, document evidence, and clear the pavement before traffic resumes.
