The Barry County Sheriff’s Office investigated a single vehicle fatal crash at M-37 and M-79 in Hastings Township at 12:53 a.m. Sunday, according to a sheriff’s media release.

 

Investigation showed a Chevrolet Silverado driven by Matthew Rick, 44, from Hastings, was traveling westbound on M-79 when he went through the stop sign, crossed M-37 and hit a pole in a marsh area on the side of the road.  

 

Rick, the only occupant in the pickup, was pronounced dead at the scene. It appears he was wearing his seatbelt and the side airbags were deployed. It also appears speed was a factor in the crash; it’s unknown if alcohol or drugs were involved. He was transported to WMED in Kalamazoo for an autopsy.

 

Deputies were assisted by Hastings Fire Department, Mercy Ambulance Service, MDOT and Barry County Central Dispatch. Deputy Elliot Hausler and Deputy Scott Ware are the investigators. The news release was sent out by Sergeant Rich Frazer.

 

The crash is still under investigation.