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.
