More than 100 vehicles pile up on I-196 near Grand Rapids as major winter storm sweeps U.S.
Over 100 vehicles, including 30+ semitrailers, crashed or slid on I-196 near Grand Rapids amid lake-effect snow; dozens injured, roadway closed for hours for cleanup.
Overview
More than 100 vehicles, including over 30 semitrailer trucks, were involved in a chain-reaction crash on I-196 southwest of Grand Rapids Monday, closing both directions between Hudsonville and Zeeland.
Ottawa County and state police reported numerous injuries but no deaths; one outlet said 10 non-life-threatening injuries, while officials continued investigations into the pileup.
The pileup occurred amid a major winter storm and lake-effect snow; National Weather Service warned whiteouts, high winds and subzero wind chills across the Great Lakes and beyond.
Multiple towing companies and emergency crews, including Grand Valley Towing, removed cars and semis; stranded motorists were bused to Hudsonville High School for assistance.
Storm affected much of U.S., with snow into Florida's Panhandle and warnings for freezing temperatures; officials urged motorists to avoid travel and extend stopping distances.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources present this as straightforward, factual reporting, relying on official statements (Michigan State Police, Ottawa County Sheriff), firsthand witness quotes (Pedro Mata Jr., towing manager Jeff Westveld), and National Weather Service alerts. Language is descriptive rather than evaluative, perspectives are proportional to roles, and no significant viewpoints are omitted.
Sources (8)
FAQ
The pileup was caused by heavy lake-effect snow creating whiteout conditions with visibilities under 1/2 mile, high winds of 20-40 mph, and icy roads during a major winter storm.
More than 100 vehicles were involved, including over 30 semitrailer trucks, with several jackknifed semis.
Numerous minor, non-life-threatening injuries were reported, estimated between 9 and 12 people, with no deaths; all injured were taken to hospitals.
Both directions of I-196 were closed for more than seven hours until the scene was cleared; stranded motorists were bused to Hudsonville High School for assistance and rides home.
Both lanes of I-196 have reopened after cleanup; the investigation into the crashes is ongoing.
History
3 sources