Read more: Local, State, US 23, Whiteford Township, Michigan, Jeep, Highway, Crash, Seat Belt
MONROE, MICH. -- An Ottawa Lake man was taken to the hospital in serious condition Tuesday after a late Tuesday morning car crash on US 23.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says John R. Hagen, 52, was driving a 1997 Jeep Cherokee north on US 23 in Whiteford Township, Mich. when the vehicle went off the left side of the highway and entered the median. The Jeep struck a guard rail at the Ottawa Lake Drain and broke through, dropping approximately 13 feet into the water below.
The vehicle came to a rest on the water on its wheels.
Hagen was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, according to authorities. He suffered serious injuries and was taken by Life Flight to the University of Toledo Medical Center. He is listed in serious condition.
Authorities say alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the crash. They also say they do not believe Hagen was speeding.
