LANSING (WWJ) -- A driver hit and and killed two Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) workers south of Lansing on Tuesday, sheriff's officials said.
The Ingham County Sheriff's Office said the crash happening on northbound US-127 near W. Holt Road at around 1:20 p.m. on May 26.
"The Michigan Infrastructure & Transformation Association (MITA) is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two workers killed in a work zone crash on US 127," MITA Executive Vice President Rob Coppersmith said in a statement.
Authorities said a Dewitt man lost control of his car and struck two MDOT workers. The workers, a 49-year-old Mason man and 51-year-old Mason man, both died at the scene.
Their names were not released.
The 24-year-old Dewitt man was hospitalized in critical condition.
Investigators said their preliminary investigation suggests speed was a factor in the crash. Northbound US-127 was shut down for over five hours to "safely provide life-saving efforts" and investigate, sheriff's officials said.
"We call on drivers to slow down, pay attention, and remember that it is up to all of us to protect each other on the roads," Coppersmith said in the statement. "Work zones are not just traffic delays-- they are someone's workplace. Someone's neighbor. Someone's family member."
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Coppersmith's full statement on behalf of MITA:
“MITA is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two MDOT workers killed in a work zone crash on US-127. Our hearts go out to their families, loved ones, and colleagues during this difficult time.
"Every day, thousands of workers around Michigan show up to build and maintain the roads that connect our communities — and they all deserve to come home safely. Every fatality in a work zone is a devastating reminder that more must be done to protect the men and women who keep our roads moving.
"We call on drivers to slow down, pay attention, and remember that it is up to all of us to protect each other on the road. Work zones are not just traffic delays – they are someone's workplace. Someone's neighbor. Someone’s family member. We will continue to advocate for stronger work zone safety measures, increased enforcement, and the resources needed to protect every worker on every project across Michigan.”
