Elderly Driver Arrested After Rear-Ending Police Cruiser in Clinton Township
The incident took place in Clinton Township, Michigan, on Friday, November 7, 2025, along eastbound Metropolitan Parkway near Gratiot Avenue. The area, a busy stretch of roadway lined with businesses and residential neighborhoods, saw a sudden disruption early that evening when a police vehicle was struck from behind by another driver.
According to officials, the crash occurred at approximately 5:45 p.m. as a Michigan State Police trooper was on routine patrol in a fully marked state police cruiser. The trooper had slowed in traffic when a Jeep SUV traveling behind him failed to stop and rear-ended the patrol vehicle. The impact caused damage to both vehicles, though fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
Responding officers quickly identified the driver of the Jeep as a 76-year-old man from St. Clair Shores. When officers approached the vehicle, they immediately noticed signs of intoxication. The driver reportedly exhibited slurred speech, unsteady movement, and the strong odor of alcohol. A field sobriety test was administered at the scene, followed by a breathalyzer test, which revealed that his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was nearly twice the legal limit.
The driver was subsequently placed under arrest for operating while intoxicated (OWI) and transported to the Macomb County Jail for processing. His vehicle was impounded, and police confirmed that charges are pending as the case is reviewed by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office.
The Michigan State Police (MSP) released an official statement following the incident, emphasizing their continued efforts to combat impaired driving on state roads. First Lieutenant Mike Shaw, a spokesperson for MSP, expressed frustration and disappointment that individuals continue to make reckless decisions behind the wheel, particularly during a time of year when alcohol-related crashes tend to increase.
“Drunk drivers are a danger to all of us,” Lt. Shaw said. “There is absolutely no reason to drive drunk—ever. With the holiday season right around the corner, hopefully this will serve as a reminder to plan ahead, use a designated driver, or call for a ride. No one should risk their life or someone else’s.”
Authorities say the trooper who was struck was evaluated by medical personnel as a precaution but did not require hospitalization. The patrol car, however, sustained noticeable rear-end damage and had to be towed from the scene.
Michigan State Police are reminding drivers that even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment and reaction time. For drivers over the age of 21, the legal BAC limit in Michigan is 0.08%, but impairment can begin at lower levels. For older adults, such as the suspect in this case, alcohol can have stronger and more unpredictable effects due to slower metabolism and potential medication interactions.
Law enforcement officials have also highlighted the dangers of impaired driving among senior citizens, who may already face slower reflexes and vision or balance issues. Combining these factors with alcohol increases the likelihood of crashes dramatically.
This latest incident comes as Michigan enters a period when impaired driving enforcement campaigns typically intensify. With the holiday season approaching, the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative will see additional patrols across the state, including in Macomb County, aimed at reducing preventable crashes caused by intoxicated drivers.
Community members have voiced both relief and concern following the event. Residents near Metropolitan Parkway say the stretch of road is often busy during evening rush hour and that impaired driving has been a growing issue in the area. One resident remarked that “it’s a miracle no one else was hurt” and praised the trooper’s quick response and restraint.
The arrested man’s name has not been released pending formal charges, but police confirmed that he faces potential charges of Operating While Intoxicated and Failure to Stop Within Assured Clear Distance, among other possible citations.
In summary, what began as a routine patrol on a Friday evening turned into a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. A 76-year-old man from St. Clair Shores, allegedly driving under the influence, rear-ended a Michigan State Police vehicle on Metropolitan Parkway. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, but the incident underscores the ongoing risks posed by drunk driving—and the critical importance of making responsible choices before getting behind the wheel.