Couple dead after suspect vehicle in police chase crashes into them

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Mich. -- The Michigan State Police report Marshall Post troopers responded to Sevison Road near Mintdale Road in Florence Township on Sunday around 9:38 a.m. for a two-vehicle head-on crash.

Upon arrival troopers found St. Joseph County Sheriff's deputies already on scene.

Authorities' preliminary investigation shows a Mercedes Benz, driven by a 22-year-old White Pigeon man, was traveling north on Sevison Road at a high rate of speed when he lost control, crossed the center line, and crashed head-on into a Ford Explorer traveling south.

The occupants of the Explorer were identified as a 60-year-old woman and 51-year-old man, both of Constantine.

Both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

The 22-year-old driver was taken to Bronson Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. He was still in the hospital as of Monday morning.

Authorities say seatbelts appear to have been worn by occupants of both vehicles.

The report states it's unknown if alcohol was a factor.

According to authorities, the White Pigeon man was driving on a suspended license and speed is believed to be a factor in this crash.

The report states prior to the crash, St. Joseph County deputies observed the Mercedes traveling at a high rate of speed north on U.S. 131.

Deputies attempted to stop the driver, but the driver did not stop.

The report states after a short pursuit, deputies lost site of the vehicle.

Later, authorities say a passerby flagged down the deputies and told them the fleeing Mercedes was seen heading north on Sevison Road.

St. Joseph County Sheriff's deputies responded, which is where they discovered the crash.

Authorities say no arrests have been made at this point.

A full copy of this report will be forwarded to the prosecutor's office for review and possible charges on multiple violations, including Reckless Driving Causing Death, Flee and Elude, and Driving with Suspended License.