2 More Reports Of Cars Struck By 'Projectiles' On I-69
WALTON TWP. (WWJ) - Authorities are reporting two more possible shooting incidents on I-69 near Lansing.
The first incident happened around 4 p.m. Thursday in Eaton County. A vehicle was traveling northbound near Stine Road in Walton Township when one of its side windows was struck and damaged by a "projectile."
"We have no idea what type of projectile that was at this time, but we're still under investigation on this incident," Eaton County Sheriff Tom Reich told WWJ's Beth Fisher.
The second incident occurred at least a half-hour later in Calhoun County. A semi-truck was traveling southbound near N Drive North in Convis Township when it too was struck and damaged by a projectile.
No injuries were reported in either incident, and investigators are trying to determine if the incidents might be related.
Police in Eaton County are now working with the Calhoun County Major Crimes Task Force, since similar incidents have occurred in Calhoun and Branch counties recently on I-69 and I-94. In those incidents, which took place between July 29 and Aug. 21, investigators determined the damage was from gunshots.
Police are again increasing weekend patrols in Eaton County to look out for suspicious activity -- especially with increased traffic due to the long Labor Day holiday weekend. Investigators aren't sure if bullets are hitting cars or if it's some sort of debris.
"We have no idea if there's one or two people involved in this at this point, but we're looking at all aspects," said Reich. "Hopefully a motorist can give us some good information so we can have a good lead to investigate this further."
Reich is urging motorists to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles, subjects or activity they observe while traveling on I-69 and nearby secondary roads.
"If they believe that their vehicle has been fired upon -- do not stop," said Reich. "Instead, I would like them to note the location of the nearest mile marker or sign or landmark and continue to an exit and a safe location where they can call 911."
Anyone with information can call the Silent Observer at 269-781-9700. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
