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March 15, 2025 – Michigan State Police (MSP) are asking for the public’s help in identifying a Good Samaritan who pulled an unconscious man from a burning Kia Soul following a crash caused by an unlicensed 14-year-old driver on M-66 in Calhoun County on Friday, March 14.
The incident occurred just before 12:30 p.m. at the intersection of M-66 and B Drive South, less than 10 miles from Battle Creek. According to MSP, a Ford Explorer heading east blew through a flashing red signal and slammed into a southbound Kia Soul that had the right of way. The impact sparked a fire in one of the vehicles.
Witnesses called 911 as flames began to rise. Before troopers could fully extricate the driver, a bystander rushed in and helped pull the 42-year-old Athens man from the fiery wreck. The victim was unconscious but breathing with a pulse. He suffered multiple critical head injuries and was airlifted to Bronson Kalamazoo Hospital.
Investigators noted the man was not wearing a seatbelt but found no evidence of drugs or alcohol involvement.
Ongoing Search for the Hero and Missing Minors
The Good Samaritan left the scene before troopers could get their name. MSP’s Marshall Post is eager to thank the rescuer and is asking anyone with information to call 269-558-0500.
Meanwhile, police confirmed the driver of the Ford Explorer was a 14-year-old boy with no valid license. Four other minors were in the SUV. Two ran away from the crash before first responders arrived and are still being sought. The remaining three, ages 14 to 15 and all from Battle Creek, were taken to the same hospital with injuries ranging from broken legs and ankles to fractured pelvic bones.
MSP believes marijuana use in the Ford Explorer may have been a factor, though alcohol is not suspected. It is unclear whether seatbelts were worn by the occupants.
Expert Perspective: The Dangers of Unlicensed Teen Drivers
This case highlights a growing concern in Michigan and across the U.S.: underage, unlicensed drivers getting behind the wheel with passengers. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, crashes involving teen drivers are three times more likely to occur when other teens are in the vehicle.
“An unlicensed 14-year-old driving with four other minors is a recipe for tragedy,” said John Michaels, a traffic safety consultant based in Detroit. “This incident could have been far worse. The Good Samaritan’s quick action likely saved a life.”
Michigan law requires drivers to be at least 18 to obtain a full license, but instances of younger drivers taking vehicles without permission are not uncommon. Authorities encourage parents to secure keys and talk to their children about the legal and physical consequences of unauthorized driving.
What’s Next for the Case
MSP is reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras in hopes of identifying both the Good Samaritan and the two teens who fled. The young driver could face charges including operating a motor vehicle without a license, reckless driving, and possibly contributing to a serious injury collision.
The 42-year-old victim remains hospitalized in critical condition. No update on his recovery has been released as of Sunday.
Anyone with information should contact the MSP Marshall Post at 269-558-0500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-342-STOP.
