SHERIFF NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NATURE OF INCIDENT: Multiple Vehicle Crashes Cause Temporary Closure of I-94
LOCATION: Westbound I94 near the 56MM
NARRATIVE:
Van Buren County, MI – On March 16, 2026, at approximately 1745 hours, Van Buren County Dispatch began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting numerous traffic crashes along westbound I-94 near the 56 mile marker.
Deputies responding to the area discovered a large-scale incident involving approximately 60 vehicles. Several semi-trucks had jackknifed, contributing to a complete shutdown of westbound I-94.
At approximately the same time, additional crashes were reported on eastbound I-94 near the 52 mile marker. These incidents resulted in the closure of eastbound lanes as well, effectively shutting down traffic in both directions.
Deputies on scene managed a significant 20-vehicle crash near the 55 mile marker westbound, along with an additional four-vehicle crash in the same area. The closures caused extensive traffic delays and contributed to multiple secondary crashes and slide-offs on surrounding roadways.
Weather conditions at the time of the incidents were reported as whiteout conditions, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions.
I-94 remained closed for approximately three hours while emergency personnel and tow services worked to clear the roadway. The highway was fully reopened at approximately 2100 hours.
Motorists are reminded to use extreme caution during severe winter weather conditions, reduce speed, and allow for additional travel time.
