Tragic Crash Claims Life of Off-Duty Wayne County Sheriff’s Deputy in Detroit
DETROIT, MI — A devastating early morning crash on Saturday, June 7, 2025, has left the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and local community in mourning after a 25-year-old off-duty deputy lost his life in a single-vehicle accident. The fatal incident occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. on Northbound Lodge Freeway near the Chicago Boulevard exit.
According to a preliminary investigation by the Michigan State Police, the off-duty deputy, later identified as Deputy Phillips, was driving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) northbound on the Lodge when, for unknown reasons, his vehicle left the roadway. The SUV reportedly traveled up an embankment, struck a tree, and then rolled back down onto the freeway, where it came to rest — badly damaged and engulfed in flames.
Witnesses contacted the Detroit Regional Communications Center, reporting a single-vehicle crash and a vehicle on fire, blocking lanes of travel. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but despite their efforts, they found the driver had been ejected from the SUV. Phillips was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. No other vehicles or individuals were involved in the incident.
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Phillips was off duty at the time and expressed their profound sorrow over the loss of one of their own. The identity of the fallen deputy has not been officially released pending notification of all family members, though colleagues and peers have already begun expressing condolences and sharing memories of a young officer dedicated to public service.
In a statement to the media, First Lieutenant Mike Shaw of the Michigan State Police emphasized the importance of seatbelt use, especially in rollover incidents. “We are reminding drivers to wear their seatbelts,” Shaw stated. “Not only will it keep you behind the wheel, it will keep you inside the vehicle if it rolls over. This tragic crash is still under investigation and pending reports from the Medical Examiner.”
Phillips had recently joined the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, where he was quickly recognized for his dedication, calm under pressure, and respectful approach toward the community. Friends describe him as ambitious and humble, someone who loved being a part of something bigger than himself — a protector and a peacemaker who had a bright future in law enforcement.
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office plans to honor Phillips’ service with a memorial in the coming days. Grief counselors are also being made available to support colleagues who are struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine if other factors such as speed, fatigue, or impairment played a role in the crash. For now, the community is left with a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change — and how critical even the smallest safety measures, like wearing a seatbelt, can be.
Anyone with additional information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact the Michigan State Police Detroit Post as the investigation remains active.
