SANILAC COUNTY, Mich. – Authorities in Sanilac County are investigating a single-vehicle accident that resulted in the passing of a 71-year-old man from Deckerville on Thursday night. The incident occurred on M-25 near Weber Drive, just north of Port Sanilac, according to a statement from the Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies reported that the man was driving a Dodge Dakota pickup truck northbound along M-25 at approximately 9:20 p.m. when he lost control of the vehicle. Preliminary findings suggest that the truck veered across the center line and left the roadway before entering a nearby yard. The vehicle then rolled several times before coming to a stop.
Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of the crash. Despite immediate assistance from first responders, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was the only occupant of the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Authorities have not yet released the man’s name pending notification of his family. Investigators are continuing to examine what factors might have contributed to the crash, including weather conditions, road surface, and possible mechanical issues with the truck. The sheriff’s office has also confirmed that no other vehicles were involved.
The section of M-25 near Weber Drive was temporarily closed to traffic late Thursday night while deputies conducted their investigation and crews worked to clear debris from the roadway. Motorists traveling in the area experienced short delays as officials completed their work. The road was reopened to traffic later that night.
Residents who live near the site of the accident described hearing the crash and immediately calling for help. One witness said that emergency crews arrived within minutes, and officers worked carefully to secure the area as fire and medical personnel attempted to assist.
The Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue to investigate the circumstances that led to the loss of control. Authorities have not yet determined whether speed, a medical emergency, or another factor may have played a role. Deputies are reviewing evidence from the scene, including skid marks and vehicle positioning, to better understand the sequence of events.
Local officials have expressed condolences to the driver’s family and friends, emphasizing how difficult such incidents are for small communities like Deckerville, where many residents know one another personally. Sheriff’s deputies also took the opportunity to remind the public about the importance of driving carefully, especially during the evening hours when visibility can be reduced.
Weather conditions at the time were reportedly clear and dry, though investigators have not ruled out the possibility of other contributing factors such as road debris or animal movement. The Michigan State Police and local fire departments assisted deputies at the scene, providing traffic control and safety support during the investigation.
Community members have shared their sympathies online, describing the victim as a kind and hardworking person who will be missed by those who knew him. As the sheriff’s office continues its investigation, no further details have been released.
Authorities expect to provide additional updates once the investigation is complete and the driver’s family has been notified. In the meantime, the Sanilac County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact their department.
The incident serves as another reminder of the unpredictability of rural roads and the importance of staying alert while driving. Even familiar routes, officials said, can become dangerous in a moment if conditions change unexpectedly. The sheriff’s office extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the 71-year-old Deckerville man and assured the public that the cause of the crash remains under thorough review.
