The Barry County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a tragic two‑vehicle head‑on crash that occurred just before 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, near the intersection of South Charlton Park Road and East Center Road in Hastings Township.

What happened

According to the sheriff’s office, a 46‑year‑old man traveling south on Charlton Park Road crossed the center line and collided head‑on with an oncoming vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle, a 64‑year‑old woman, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her passenger was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries, and the 46‑year‑old driver also suffered serious injuries and was taken to the same facility for treatment.

Investigation underway

Investigators have not released the identity of the deceased woman. Early statements from the sheriff’s office indicate that drugs are believed to be a factor in the crash, though the investigation remains ongoing and no official charges have been filed at this time.

Community response

Residents of Hastings Township expressed shock and sadness over the loss of a community member. Local officials reminded drivers to remain vigilant, especially on rural roadways where visibility can change quickly after dusk. The sheriff’s office urged anyone with information about the crash to contact the Barry County Sheriff’s Office.

Safety reminders

Authorities continue to stress the importance of sober driving, especially on roads with limited lighting. The sheriff’s office recommends using seat belts, avoiding distractions, and adhering to speed limits to help prevent similar tragedies.

For updates on the investigation, readers can follow the Barry County Sheriff’s Office on social media platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.

Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.