Fire Department Vehicle Hit on US-131; Driver Arrested on Suspicion of Impairment

BYRON TOWNSHIP, MICH., A Byron Township Fire Department vehicle was struck Saturday night while blocking traffic at the scene of a crash on US-131 near 76th Street, according to authorities.
Officials said the emergency response vehicle was positioned to protect firefighters, law enforcement personnel, and individuals involved in the original crash. The impact caused significant damage to the department’s water tender and equipment inside the truck, which will require repairs.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office reported that multiple drivers sustained injuries in the collision, including the driver suspected of operating a vehicle while impaired. The incident remains under investigation.
Fire officials noted that the intentional placement of the emergency vehicle helped shield crew members from harm. As a result, personnel on scene were not injured and were able to immediately assist the driver following the crash.
Authorities are reminding motorists to slow down and move over when approaching emergency scenes. The fire department also urged drivers to avoid operating vehicles while impaired or distracted to help prevent similar incidents.





