Leelanau County Sheriff’s Office Details Fatal Wednesday Car Crash On M-22

A serious car crash that shut down M-22 in Leelanau County for more than six hours on Wednesday led to one fatality and four hospitalizations, according to a report posted to the Leelanau County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page on Thursday morning.

At 12:43pm on Wednesday, the Sheriff’s Office announced via its Facebook page that, “Due to a serious traffic crash, M-22 is currently closed to all traffic. Emergency crews are on scene, and the roadway between Crain Hill and Lakeview Hills is expected to remain closed until approximately 5:00 – 6:00 PM today.” The post urged motorists to “avoid the area and seek alternate routes.” The road didn't reopen to traffic until just before 6pm Wednesday.

On Thursday morning, the Sheriff’s Office shared more details about the crash, including a confirmation that the accident had led to a fatality.

“On Wednesday September 10th, at approx. 11:22am, deputies were dispatched to a 2-car accident on S West-Bay Shore Drive near Walters Drive,” the Facebook post stated. “The initial investigation has determined that a 2025 Chevrolet pick-up truck, operated by a 71 year old Traverse City man, was traveling south on S West-Bay Shore Dr. The pick-up crossed the center line and collided with a northbound 2019 Honda SUV, operated by a 61 year old man from Ohio, and occupied by 3 other passengers. As a result of the crash, the 61 year old male driver of the Honda SUV was deceased. The male driver of the pick-up truck, as well as the other passengers in the Honda SUV were treated at Munson Hospital for their injuries.”

According to the post, the accident “remains under investigation,” with alcohol “believed to have been a factor in the crash.”