Michigan: Grand Traverse County Deputy, Firefighter OK After Accident

A sheriff’s deputy and firefighter are OK after being involved in two separate accidents Wednesday afternoon. A Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Deputy's car was hit along east M-72 near Elk Lake.

While the Grand Traverse Rural Fire Department was responding, one of their captains was struck by another car.

Police say the whiteout conditions along M-72 and people driving too fast quickly led to even more problems.

“We have our protective gear on, but it's no match for a vehicle striking us,” says Chief Theo Weber, Grand Traverse Rural Fire Department.

It's the call no fire chief wants to get.

“We’re all emotionally attached. We're a big family and it's hard to get that call,” explains Chief Weber.

Wednesday afternoon a car hit Captain Arbenowske, with the Grand Traverse Rural Fire Department, while he was working the deputy crash scene along east M-72.

“We’re thankful it struck two cars before our firefighter, because it scrubbed some speed off of hitting the firefighter. Our firefighter is thankfully going to be OK. He's in stable condition and should be released later today or tomorrow morning,” says Chief Weber.

Chief Weber says he’s thankful the situation wasn't worse, and asks everyone on the road to watch for first responders.

“Just ask the motorists to please slow down, respect those flashing lights,” says Chief Weber.

Michigan State Police issued tickets to both drivers for driving too fast for conditions.

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