July 6, 2006

East Lansing - The Michigan State Police (MSP) confirmed today that fewer people died in traffic crashes this July 4^th holiday weekend, compared to last year.  Preliminary reports indicate three people lost their lives in three separate traffic crashes this year.  In comparison, 18 people died in traffic crashes during the 2005 July 4^th holiday weekend.

Of the three victims, one was known to have been restrained by a safety belt, and alcohol was a known factor in one of the three fatal crashes.

“These numbers are still preliminary because they only reflect those fatalities reported to the Michigan State Police as of 2 p.m. today,” stated Captain Daniel Atkinson, commander of the MSP Field Operations Division.  “This reduction in fatalities is a significant accomplishment when you factor in the longer July 4^th holiday period this year as compared to 2005.  This positive trend is proof the hard work and dedication of law enforcement around the state is paying off.”       

The 2006 July 4^th holiday weekend ran from 6 p.m. on Friday, June 30, through midnight on Tuesday,

July 4, 2006.

Read more news releases from the Michigan State Police.