LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A road crew worker has died after being hit by a car in Van Buren County Friday morning.
Michigan State Police (MSP) says the crash happened in a construction zone near Lawrence Township on 48th Avenue and County Road 681.
MSP tells us a ’97 Dodge pickup truck disregarded traffic controls when it tried to pass another vehicle, rear-ending an immobile 2012 Chevrolet pickup.
The Dodge hit and killed the road worker while trying to pass the Chevy, troopers explain.
The victim has since been identified as 58-year-old Rene Rangel from Dowagiac. He was holding a traffic sign when he was hit, according to MSP.
The drivers in both vehicles were unhurt.
MSP describes the Dodge driver as a 30-year-old man from Hartford.
Drugs are a suspected contributor in the crash.
The crash remains under investigation.
MSP credits the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, the Hartford Police and Fire departments, Pokagon Tribal and Lawrence police, and VBEMS for their assistance.
The Van Buren County Road Commission says their office will remain closed for the remainder of the day.
“Today is a difficult day for our Road Commission family”, says Van Buren County Road Commission Acting Managing Director Linnea Rader. “I join all our employees and Board in mourning the loss of one of our own in a tragic accident. A family is now devastated, and our community must now deal with a senseless tragedy. To family and friends who are hurting today, we share your pain. Please know that there is support out there for you.”
The road was closed for several hours but has since reopened.
