WARREN, Mich. — A tragic accident in the early hours of Sunday morning has claimed the life of 29-year-old Nateria Smith, who was fatally struck by a vehicle on eastbound I-696 near Hoover Road.
According to authorities, emergency crews were dispatched to the scene after receiving multiple reports of a pedestrian being hit on the interstate. When officers arrived, they found Smith critically injured. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details surrounding the moments leading up to the collision remain under investigation. Officials have not yet confirmed why Smith was on the interstate at the time or whether the driver involved remained at the scene. The Michigan State Police and Warren Police Department’s traffic investigators are working together to piece together the sequence of events.
The eastbound lanes of I-696 were temporarily shut down near Hoover Road for several hours as accident reconstruction teams documented the scene and gathered evidence. This closure caused significant delays for early-morning drivers.
Family and friends of Nateria Smith are now mourning an unimaginable loss. Known for her vibrant personality, kindness, and dedication to her loved ones, Smith’s passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew her best. Social media has since been filled with heartfelt tributes, remembering her as someone who could light up a room with her smile and presence.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the accident to contact the Michigan State Police.
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers pedestrians face near high-speed roadways and the importance of driver vigilance at all hours. As the investigation continues, the community will remember Nateria Smith not for the circumstances of her passing, but for the life she lived and the love she shared.
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