Fatal Crash on M-53 Claims Life of Bruce Township Woman; Investigation Ongoing

Fatal Crash on M-53 Claims Life of Bruce Township Woman; Investigation Ongoing

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — A tragic crash involving a white Chevy Express van and a semi-trailer brought traffic to a halt and left a community grieving, as authorities confirmed the death of 49-year-old Michelle Castanos of Bruce Township. The collision occurred along northbound M-53, just north of 32 Mile Road, prompting an extensive emergency response and temporary road closures.

According to the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), deputies and emergency crews were dispatched to the scene after reports of a serious accident involving a commercial vehicle and a van. Upon arrival, first responders found the van severely damaged, with Castanos unresponsive behind the wheel. She was tragically pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the semi-truck involved in the collision did not sustain any injuries, and authorities say no other vehicles were involved.

For several hours, northbound M-53 remained closed as the MCSO’s crash reconstruction team worked to determine the exact cause of the incident. The scene was secured while investigators collected evidence, took measurements, and interviewed witnesses and the semi-truck driver.

The roadway was reopened to traffic later in the day, but the emotional impact of the crash remains.

The MCSO has confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing, and details regarding what led to the crash — whether weather, speed, driver fatigue, or mechanical failure played a role — have yet to be released. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who may have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward and assist investigators.

The tragic loss of Michelle Castanos has left her family and the Bruce Township community in mourning. Friends and relatives have described her as a caring and hardworking woman, and tributes have begun pouring in on social media as news of the crash spreads.

As crash investigators continue their work, local officials are reminding drivers to exercise caution, especially when navigating highways and areas where large commercial vehicles are present.

Anyone with information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Services Division.