Metamora Township, MI (March 4, 2025) – A head-on collision on M-24 near Brocker Road claimed the life of 61-year-old Roxann Johnson, a special education teacher at Turrill Elementary School in Lapeer Community Schools.
Accident Details: The fatal crash occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. as Johnson was driving northbound on M-24 on her way to work. A 17-year-old male from Genesee County drove a 1971 AM General semi-truck southbound when he crossed the center line, colliding nearly head-on with Johnson’s 2015 Jeep Cherokee. Metamora Fire & Rescue extricated Johnson from her vehicle, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi-truck driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to McLaren Lapeer Region Hospital for treatment.
Investigation: Metamora Township Police Chief Ryan Davis confirmed that authorities are still investigating why the semi-truck crossed the centerline. Investigators urge witnesses to come forward with any information about the crash.
Legal Considerations: The center of the investigation is why the semi-truck driver crossed the centerline. Investigators will examine driver behavior, including distraction and speeding. They will analyze the driver’s hour log to see if the semi-truck driver complied with federal regulations limiting the hours a semi-truck driver can be on the road before taking a mandatory break. They will also examine the semi-truck’s maintenance logs to determine if it received routine maintenance and if an underlying issue caused the truck to cross into the other lane.
If negligence is found, Johnson’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.
My sincerest condolences to Roxann Johnson’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Source: The County Press