RONALD TWP. (WXYZ) – Two bicyclists are dead and three others injured after a car crashed into a group of them in Ionia County, police say.
It happened during Make-A-Wish Michigan’s 35th annual Wish-A-Mile (WAM) bike ride.
Police tell us it happened around 11 a.m. in the 3000 block of Stage Road in Ronald Township
Investigators say the five bicyclists were southbound on Stage Road when they were hit by a northbound SUV, which crossed the center line trying to pass another vehicle.
One cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, while another was transported via AeroMed to a Grand Rapids hospital before succumbing to his injuries.
The three cyclists who survived the crash are in hospital with what officials say are serious injuries.
The driver of the SUV was arrested on two counts of operating while intoxicated and causing death. After receiving media attention, they are now being held in the Ionia County Jail.
The five cyclists, all of whom are men, are not being named at this time, pending family notification.
The identity of the driver has also not been released, pending formal charges and court disposition.
“We are deeply saddened to share that a tragic accident occurred today in Lonia County involving cyclists participating in Make-A-Wish® Michigan’s 35th Annual Wish-A-Mile® (WAM) Bike Ride” , said Make-A-Wish Michigan. in a statement about the accident. “Two riders died and three were injured after being hit by a car. Our staff and the entire Make-A-Wish family are heartbroken and offer our deepest condolences to the motorists involved, their loved ones and all members of the WAM. community during this difficult time. We are grateful to the first responders who arrived immediately to save lives. We are supporting our riders, staff and volunteers with grief counseling and assisting with the law enforcement investigation . The third day of our WAM 300 also as our one-day WAM 50 and WAM Jr. scheduled for Sunday July 31st have been canceled out of respect for the family.”