A 19-year-old Morley man was killed and three others were injured this morning when a westbound vehicle ran off Fuller Avenue, hit a large boulder, rolled several times and slammed into a tree in Mecosta County. The driver was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene. The three passengers were taken to Corewell Health - Big Rapids Hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening. Investigators say alcohol is believed to be a factor as the probe continues.
Crash details and victims
Deputies with the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office, the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety and Ferris State University Police responded to the 1100 block of Fuller Avenue early Friday, according to the Manistee News Advocate. Investigators told the outlet the vehicle continued westbound to the end of Fuller, entered an unpaved stretch of roadway, struck a large boulder, rolled multiple times and then hit a tree. The 19-year-old Morley driver was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene.
The three passengers were identified as a 14-year-old from Six Lakes, an 18-year-old man from Rockford and a 19-year-old man from Fremont, Manistee News Advocate reported. All three were transported to Corewell Health - Big Rapids Hospital and were reported to have non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigation and local alcohol data
Deputies said alcohol is suspected in the crash. The Mid-Michigan Medical Examiner’s Office assisted on scene, while local fire and EMS crews provided emergency care and helped secure the area.
State numbers highlight how often alcohol is tied to serious wrecks in the area. Mecosta County recorded 27 had-been-drinking crashes in 2023, according to the Michigan Traffic Crash Facts report, illustrating the strain smaller counties can face from late-night and early-morning collisions.
Legal next steps
The Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office told Manistee News Advocate that investigators are still working to determine the precise cause of the crash. Toxicology testing and formal crash reconstruction are expected to guide whether any charges will be pursued. Prosecutors typically wait for those official findings before making decisions on potential impaired-driving counts.
How to help and what to expect
Authorities had not released additional details at the time of publication. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 231-592-0150 or [email protected], according to Big Rapids News. Investigators are expected to release further updates after they review the scene work and lab results.
