Rider Killed After Striking Parked Pickup Truck on M-77
A 33-year-old man from Germfask Township died Sunday night after the dirt bike he was riding struck a parked pickup truck on M-77 in Schoolcraft County.
Michigan State Police troopers from the Manistique outpost responded to the crash at approximately 10:50 p.m. Sunday. The collision occurred on M-77 near Grant Road.
According to a Michigan State Police news release, the rider was operating a dirt bike on the roadway when he struck a legally parked pickup truck located on the shoulder.
"Despite life-saving efforts by two citizens, responding troopers and EMS personnel, the man sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased while being transported to the hospital by emergency medical services."
The news release stated the rider had been wearing a helmet while operating the off-road bike.
The Daily Press reported that alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash. The incident remains under investigation by Michigan State Police.
Two Good Samaritans Attempted to Help
Two unnamed citizens at the scene attempted life-saving measures on the rider before first responders arrived. Troopers and EMS personnel also provided emergency care at the scene and during transport.
The victim has not been publicly identified. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
M-77 Crash Scene Remains Under Investigation
M-77 is a major highway running through the Upper Peninsula, connecting Marquette to Manistique and other communities in Schoolcraft and Dickinson counties. The crash site near Grant Road in Germfask Township is roughly 20 miles east of Manistique.
Michigan State Police have not released additional details about the pickup truck driver or whether any charges will be filed. The investigation remains active.