On Monday, Jan. 16, Sterling Heights Police Officers were dispatched to the area of northbound Ryan north of Seventeen Mile in response to a serious auto accident.
The initial investigation revealed that a 73 year old w/m was driving a black 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee southbound in the northbound lanes of Ryan Rd for unknown reasons at a high rate of speed. A 56 year old w/f was driving a black 2017 Lincoln MKZ northbound on Ryan Road in the left through lane. A 43 year old w/f was driving a white 2016 Chrysler Town and Country minivan northbound Ryan Road behind the Lincoln MKZ in the left through lane.
The 73 year old w/m struck the 56 year old female on the passenger side then struck the 43 year old female head on before becoming airborne and striking the driver’s side roof. While airborne the 73 year old driver was ejected and the Jeep landed on its roof. The Sterling Heights Fire Department was on scene and the 73 year old w/m and 43 year old w/f were pronounced dead at the scene. The Sterling Heights Fire Department treated the 56 year old female for minor injuries. She refused transport to a hospital.
Northbound Ryan was closed to all traffic from Seventeen Mile to Fox Hill Road from approximately 1121hrs until approximately 1600hrs.
It is unclear at this time if alcohol and drugs are factors in the crash. The crash remains under investigation. Anyone that may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact Officer Verougstraete of the Sterling Heights Traffic Safety Bureau at 586-446-2920.