Romulus, MI (April 6, 2026) – A Michigan State Police patrol vehicle was struck early on Monday morning, April 6, while positioned along westbound Interstate 94 near Merriman Road in Romulus. The incident happened around 1:10 a.m. as troopers were handling a separate two-car crash in the gore area between the collector-distributor and express lanes.
A trooper was seated inside a marked patrol vehicle with emergency and spot lights on when a westbound 2013 Lincoln MKZ lost control. The car hit the driver’s side of the patrol unit, then spun and collided with two other vehicles before stopping in the middle lanes of the expressway.
The trooper had to be removed from the patrol vehicle by emergency units and was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The 32-year-old driver of the Lincoln showed signs of intoxication and was also taken to a hospital for a blood draw before being taken into custody. No other injuries were reported.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, and the case is pending review.
We are thinking of the injured trooper and wish them a steady recovery.
Why Secondary Crashes Can Happen on Busy Highways
Secondary crashes often occur when drivers approach an existing incident and fail to slow down or move over. Emergency vehicles with flashing lights are meant to alert drivers from a distance, but reduced visibility, speed, or driver impairment can increase the risk of another collision.
Highways with multiple lanes, such as express and collector-distributor systems, can add to the confusion. Drivers may change lanes quickly or misjudge space near stopped vehicles. When a crash happens in these areas, it can place both responders and other motorists at risk.
Maintaining a safe speed, staying alert, and giving space to emergency scenes can help reduce the chance of follow-up accidents. Even a brief lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences in active traffic zones.
