RONALD TWP. (WXYZ) — Two bicyclists were killed and three others were injured after a car hit a group of them in Ionia County, according to police.
It happened during the Make-A-Wish Michigan 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 traveling southbound on Stage Road when they were struck by a northbound SUV that had crossed the center line trying to pass another vehicle.
One bicyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, while another was transported by AeroMed to a Grand Rapids hospital before dying of his injuries.
The three cyclists who survived the crash are in hospital with serious injuries, according to officials.
The driver of the SUV was arrested on two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death. After receiving media attention, they are now lodged in the Ionia County Jail.
The five cyclists, all of whom are male, have not been named at this time, pending family notification.
The identity of the driver has also not been released, pending formal charges and arraignments.
“We are deeply saddened to share that a tragic accident occurred today in Lonia County involving bicyclists participating in the 35th Annual Make-A-Wish® Michigan (WAM) Bike Tour,” Make-A-Wish Michigan said in a statement about the crash. “Two riders were killed and three injured after being hit by a car. Our team and the entire Make-A-Wish family are heartbroken and extend our deepest sympathies to the riders involved, their loved ones and all members of the WAM community at this difficult time. We are grateful to the first responders who arrived immediately to save lives. We support our riders, staff and volunteers with grief counseling and assisting with law enforcement investigations. Day three of our WAM 300 also as our one-day WAM 50 and WAM Jr. scheduled for Sunday July 31 have been canceled out of respect for the family.”
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