Two men died and three teenagers were hurt after a head-on collision on M-35 in Marquette County.
The Forsyth Township Police Department says that both drivers died in the crash, which happened at 3:45 Friday afternoon near Froney Drive in Little Lake.
The drivers of the vehicles, a 21-year-old Negaunee man and a 37-year-old Gwinn man, were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Three boys, aged 14 and 15, were traveling in the eastbound vehicle, and all three were hurt. All three were transported to UP Health System-Marquette. Two of them were later flown to Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. All three sustained “significant injuries”. As of 9:00 Friday night, the boys were all listed in stable condition.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The names of the people involoved in Friday’s crash are not being releases until all family members are notified.
The following agencies assisted at the scene: Michigan State Police, MSP Crash Investigation Unit, Forsyth Township Fire & EMS, UP Health System Marquette EMS, the Marquette County Sheriff’s Office, Marquette County Unit 131, Marquette County Central Dispatch and Heavy Hooker Towing.
On Saturday, Gwinn Area Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Sara Croney confirmed that all three of the injured boys are freshmen at Gwinn High School.
Croney released the following letter to the community on Saturday:
“It is with a heavy heart that we share news of a tragic traffic accident that occurred at approximately 4 p.m. on Friday, 1/17/25 involving members of our school community. A devastating car accident has claimed the life of a beloved parent and left three of our 9th grade boys injured. Two have been airlifted to Milwaukee for care, one remains in Marquette. Thankfully, we have been informed that the students are now in stable condition.”
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of those affected by this unimaginable loss. As a close-knit community, we stand together in support of the loved ones grieving during this difficult time.”
“We understand that many of you may feel the impact of this tragedy and want to help. Counselors and support staff will be available at Gwinn Middle/High School beginning on Monday 1/20/25 at 8 a.m. to provide comfort and assistance to students, staff, and families in need.”
“Please respect the privacy of the family and those directly impacted by this accident. It is important that we share compassion and avoid circulating unconfirmed information.”
“As we navigate this difficult time, let us come together to honor the memory of the parent we have lost and support the recovery of our students. We will continue to share updates as appropriate and encourage you to reach out if you have concerns or need support.”
“Thank you for your care, kindness, and understanding.”
We will have more information on this incident as they become available.
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