VERNON TOWNSHIP, MI — The Shiawassee County community is reeling from a heartbreaking incident that occurred on the afternoon of Friday, July 18, 2025, when a single-vehicle off-road crash claimed the life of a 14-year-old child and left two other juveniles injured.
At approximately 12:41 p.m., deputies from the Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the intersection of Reed Road and Pittsburg Road in Vernon Township following reports of a serious crash involving a side-by-side utility vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that the crash had resulted in the tragic death of one juvenile.
Preliminary investigation indicates that a 15-year-old was operating the side-by-side when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle left the roadway and rolled. The 14-year-old passenger was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Two other occupants—ages 15 and 14—sustained injuries and were transported by emergency personnel to local hospitals for treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly released.
The Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the crash to determine the factors that led to this devastating incident. At this time, no charges have been filed, and authorities have not released the identities of those involved, as they are minors.
The incident has shaken the tight-knit community of Vernon Township and surrounding areas. The Sheriff’s Office extended its gratitude to the Vernon Township Fire Department, Perry Area Ambulance, and Shiawassee County Central Dispatch for their swift response and assistance on the scene.
As families and friends begin the difficult process of mourning, community members are urged to keep the victims and their loved ones in their thoughts. Grief counselors and support services are expected to be made available for those affected by this tragedy.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues. Anyone with additional information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office.
This tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of safety and supervision when operating off-road vehicles, especially among young drivers.
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