MI Driver Kills 2 Bicyclist Riding On Make-A-Wish Charity Ride: Police

IONIA COUNTY, MI — A drunken driver crashed into a group of bicyclists Saturday morning in Ionia County, killing two and seriously injuring three others, according to the Ionia County Sheriff's Office.

The group of bicyclists was riding in the 35th annual three-day "Wish-A-Mile Bicycle Tour" that covers most of the state.

Officials said the group of bicyclists were struck after an SUV crossed the centerline into northbound traffic on the 3000 block of Stage Road of Ronald Township at 11:15 a.m.

The driver of the SUV, who police believe was drunk, was trying to pass another vehicle when the SUV struck the group that was riding south in the northbound lane, officials said.

One cyclist was found dead at the scene of the crash and another was flown to Spectrum Butterworth in Grand Rapids, where he later died from injuries, officials said.

Two other cyclists were taken to Sparrow Ionia Hospital, and a fifth cyclist was taken to Spectrum Butterworth. As of Monday morning, all three cyclists had severe injuries.

The driver of the SUV was arrested by police after the crash and charged with two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, officials said. After receiving medical treatment, the driver was lodged at the Ionia County Jail.

Officials did not release the driver’s name as formal charges and arraignment was still pending. The names of the cyclists were also not released, but officials did say they are men and from the east side of Michigan.