URGENT UPDATE: A tragic accident has claimed the life of a 21-year-old driver on U.S. 31 in Berrien County, MI. The crash occurred around 9:16 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, as the driver attempted to pass another vehicle at a dangerously high speed, according to local police.
The deceased driver has been identified as Cole Toney from St. Joseph. Authorities report that Toney was the sole occupant of a Lincoln MK-Z that overturned and came to rest on its roof, blocking both northbound lanes of the highway.
Emergency responders faced significant challenges when they arrived at the scene. Firefighters from Niles Township utilized extrication tools to access the vehicle. Unfortunately, paramedics found Toney deceased due to the severe injuries sustained in the crash.
Witnesses reported that Toney’s Lincoln MK-Z was traveling at an extremely high rate of speed when he attempted to pass another vehicle on the right shoulder. After successfully passing, Toney tried to re-enter the right lane but collided with the front of a Mitsubishi Mirage. This impact sent the Mitsubishi off the roadway, causing it to slide into a ditch.
The Lincoln ultimately struck a 3-foot diameter concrete bridge support, propelling it back into traffic and landing on the hood of the Mitsubishi. The driver of the Mitsubishi sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Authorities have indicated that speed was a significant factor in this tragic collision. The investigation is ongoing as police seek to gather more details regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash.
This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of a young life cut short too soon.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as authorities work to provide further insights.
