High-Speed Crash in Downtown Kalamazoo Under Investigation

Published on August 06, 2025

At approximately 2:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 6, a Kalamazoo Public Safety officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on East Michigan Avenue heading into downtown. Before the officer could initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle lost control and crashed into a building in the 200 block of E. Michigan Avenue, causing significant structural damage.

The vehicle was occupied by six individuals, including juveniles. The only reported injury was to the driver, a 22-year-old male, who sustained multiple lacerations and was transported to a local hospital where he was later released after receiving additional medical treatment. No other occupants reported injuries.

The known passengers include a 16-year-old male, a 17-year-old female, a 17-year-old male, and a 34-year-old female. A sixth occupant fled the scene before officers could make contact and has not yet been located.

Initial findings suggest alcohol and excessive speed were contributing factors in the crash. The incident remains under investigation. Due to the extent of the structural damage, the impacted building is currently in the process of being condemned.

“This crash could have ended in tragedy,” said Deputy Chief Matthew Huber of the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety. “There were six people in that vehicle, including minors, and decisions involving alcohol and reckless speed nearly cost them their lives. We urge our community to understand the very real consequences of impaired and dangerous driving. It’s not just a legal issue—it’s a matter of life and death. Please, don’t put yourself or others in danger.”

Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Operations Division at 269-337-8142. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, via the “P3Tips” app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.

By authority of: Public Information Officer Zach Hamelton