Michigan State Police Eighth District: Fatal Collision Under Investigation in Ontonagon County

BERGLAND TOWNSHIP, MICHIGAN – June 14, 2025 — A devastating head-on collision on M-28 in Ontonagon County has claimed the life of an 81-year-old Wakefield man and left two others from Minnesota injured, one critically. The tragic incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. near Timberline Rentals in Bergland Township and drew a swift emergency response from multiple agencies, including the Ontonagon County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police (MSP) Wakefield Post, and the United States Forest Service.

The Crash

According to the preliminary investigation, a couple from Minnesota was traveling westbound on M-28 when an eastbound vehicle, driven by the Wakefield man, attempted to make a left-hand turn into a private driveway. In doing so, he inadvertently crossed directly into the path of the oncoming Minnesota vehicle.

Despite efforts to avoid the collision, the Minnesota couple was unable to prevent the impact. The resulting head-on crash caused severe damage to both vehicles and prompted a multi-agency emergency response.

Casualties and Medical Response

The elderly Wakefield man was immediately transported by emergency personnel to Aspirus Ironwood Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

In the other vehicle, a 63-year-old woman from Minnesota, who was in the passenger seat, sustained serious injuries. She was initially treated at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital but was later airlifted to a higher-level trauma center for specialized medical care. The driver, a 61-year-old Minnesota man, also sustained injuries in the crash and sought medical treatment, though his injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.

Emergency Response and Community Support

The scene of the crash was secured and managed by a coalition of first responders. The Ontonagon County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation, with the MSP Wakefield Post and the MSP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit providing technical and investigative support.

Additional on-site assistance came from SONCO, Beacon Ambulance, and the Bergland Fire Department, whose swift actions were instrumental in stabilizing the scene and tending to the victims.

The Michigan State Police extended gratitude to local residents and off-duty medical personnel who stopped at the scene to provide aid before emergency services arrived.

“We deeply appreciate the compassion and quick action of those who assisted during such a tragic and chaotic event,” said a spokesperson for MSP Eighth District. “Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased and with the Minnesota couple as they begin their recovery journey.”

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are continuing to examine the details surrounding the crash. The MSP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is working alongside local deputies to analyze physical evidence, including vehicle damage patterns, road markings, and possible witness statements.

Investigators are looking into factors such as visibility, weather conditions, road layout, and whether any medical event may have contributed to the elderly driver’s decision to turn at the moment he did. Toxicology tests are standard procedure and will be part of the full post-incident analysis.

No citations or charges have been issued at this time, and officials stress that the investigation is ongoing.

Road Safety Reminder

As the community mourns this tragic loss, officials are taking the opportunity to remind all drivers — especially elderly motorists — of the importance of maintaining heightened awareness and caution on rural highways. Intersections and private driveways on high-speed roads can pose a significant hazard, particularly when visibility is limited or traffic is heavy.

“This crash is a sobering reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike,” said an officer with the Wakefield Post. “We urge drivers to take their time, signal clearly, and make certain the path is clear before turning across traffic.”

Final Words

The Michigan State Police Eighth District and the Ontonagon County Sheriff’s Department extend their heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and to the loved ones of those injured. As communities in Wakefield and Minnesota alike grieve and seek healing, officials vow to conduct a thorough investigation in pursuit of understanding and safety.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.