UNDATED (WKZO AM/FM) — It may have been the last serious snowfall of the season, but from the way area driver’s reacted, it could have been the first.
There were hundreds of slide-offs, fender benders and minor crashes reported in West Michigan due to the snowfall, which dumped 4 to 5 inches in mid-Michigan and as much as 8 inches further north, shattering a number of records.
Less snow fell in Kalamazoo overnight but it was enough to cover grassy areas and could result in a few icy spots on area roadways this morning.
Two fatal crashes are being blamed on the late season snowfall.
State Police say a 19-year-old from Middleville lost control of his Ford Explorer on M-37 in northern Barry County just after 2pm yesterday crossed the centerline and struck a Chrysler Minivan driven by a 76-year-old man from Battle Creek.
The elderly driver was killed. A 77-year-old woman and a 9-year-old girl in the mini-van will survive their injuries.
The condition of the teen driver was not released.
At 3:40 yesterday afternoon, a 32-year-old from Hopkins lost control on icy 20th Street in Allegan County, rolled his SUV and hit a tree. State Troopers say he was not belted in and died from his injuries. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.
No names were released pending notification of families.
