Benzie County, MI — A tragic accident occurred on Sunday night, April 27, when a man fleeing police in a stolen vehicle collided head-on with a van carrying the Charlevoix High School varsity golf team. The crash took place on M-115 in Joyfield Township, between Lindy Road and Wallacker Road, and left multiple individuals injured, including six students and their coach.
According to the Michigan State Police, the incident began when the Benzie County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a suspect who was allegedly involved in a stolen vehicle and a felonious assault complaint. The suspect, a 32-year-old man from Cedar, Michigan, was driving an SUV and fled westbound on M-115, leading authorities on a brief chase. After traveling approximately a mile and a half, the suspect crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the golf team’s van.
Inside the van were six students, ages 15 to 18, along with their coach, Doug Drenth. All of the van’s occupants were transported to a nearby hospital with what authorities described as “numerous injuries.” At this time, the conditions of the injured students and coach have not been officially released, though it is known that they remain in critical care. The tragic incident has left the local community shaken as they await more details about the team’s condition.
The driver of the stolen SUV was pronounced dead at the scene. The Michigan State Police are continuing their investigation into the crash, including determining the circumstances surrounding the man’s attempt to flee law enforcement and the events leading to the collision. Authorities have yet to release additional information about the stolen vehicle or the suspect’s background.
In response to the crash, Charlevoix Public Schools Superintendent Mike Ritter and Charlevoix High School Principal Dan Terryberry sent a letter to the community on Sunday evening, confirming the involvement of the golf team in the tragic incident.
“We are deeply saddened to inform you that earlier today, our varsity golf team and their coach were involved in a serious accident,” the letter stated. “The situation remains critical, and several individuals are receiving medical care. Out of respect for the privacy of those involved, we are not sharing further details at this time. Please keep our students, coach, and their families in your thoughts and prayers.”
The crash prompted a significant emergency response, with assistance from the Benzie County Sheriff’s Office, Thompsonville Fire Department, Benzonia Township Fire Department, Benzie County EMS, and Mobile Medical Response (MMR). Rescue teams worked quickly to transport the injured to the hospital, and authorities have praised the swift and professional response of the emergency personnel involved in the operation.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the Charlevoix community, and school officials are working closely with local authorities and medical staff to support the students, coach, and their families. While Charlevoix Public Schools has not yet announced any immediate changes to school operations, it is expected that counselors and support services will be made available to students and staff who have been affected by the tragedy.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the Charlevoix community is left to process the devastating events. Local residents, as well as those in the broader Northern Michigan region, have expressed their concern and sympathy for the victims and their families, many of whom are well-known and well-liked in the community. The high school and its sports teams have long been a source of pride for Charlevoix, and the accident has hit close to home for many in the area.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that can arise from high-speed chases and reckless driving. As the community mourns the tragic loss and prays for the recovery of the injured, the focus remains on providing support for those affected by this horrific event.
As of Monday morning, Charlevoix school officials are expected to continue providing updates and offer additional support to those in need during this difficult time.
