OAKLAND COUNTY, MI – Tragedy struck in Waterford Township Friday morning when an 86-year-old man lost his life after suffering a medical emergency that led to a single-vehicle crash, according to local authorities.
Waterford Township Police Chief Scott Underwood said officers were dispatched at approximately 7:55 a.m. on September 5 to the area of Pontiac Lake Road and Airport Road after receiving reports of a vehicle off the roadway.
Investigators determined that the elderly driver, who was traveling alone, experienced a sudden medical issue behind the wheel. As a result, the man lost consciousness, and his vehicle veered off the road before colliding with a utility pole and a tree.
When first responders arrived, they found the driver unresponsive inside the vehicle. Authorities noted that he did not appear to have sustained significant traumatic injuries from the crash itself, leading officials to believe his death was primarily related to the medical episode.
Emergency crews quickly extricated the man and transported him to a nearby hospital. Despite lifesaving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His name has not yet been released, pending notification of family members.
Police confirmed that no other vehicles were involved, and no one else was injured in the incident. Utility crews were also called to the scene to inspect and repair the damaged pole.
Chief Underwood expressed condolences to the man’s family and emphasized that incidents like this underscore the unpredictable nature of medical emergencies on the road.
The crash remains under investigation, but authorities do not suspect alcohol, drugs, or reckless driving played any role in the tragic event.
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