A Hastings woman died and two other persons were injured Sunday morning in a crash on M-37 in Rutland Township. According to Michigan State Police Troopers, the crash happened around 8am when a Ford Escape was headed westbound on M-37 near Fairview Drive when it crossed over the centerline into oncoming traffic and hit a Jeep Compass that was traveling east.

 

The driver of the Jeep, a 59-year-old Hastings woman, died at the scene. A male passenger in her car was taken to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries. Both were wearing seatbelts. Their names have not been released.

 

The driver of the Ford Escape, a 23-year-old Lansing man, was transported to  the hospital with serious injuries. His name has also not been released. Troopers indicated he was not wearing a seat belt.

 

State Police said drug use “may have been a contributing factor” but they are still investigating.   

 

M-37 was closed for about six hours due to the crash.