I-94 Ramp To M-10 Reopens After Fatal Pedestrian Crash
DETROIT (WWJ) - A major freeway in midtown Detroit has reopened after an early morning accident that claimed the life of a 53-year-old man.
Michigan State Police say James Antony Wattkins, of Detroit, was killed in the accident that happened around 4:35 a.m. Thursday on the eastbound I-94 connector ramp to northbound M-10/Lodge Freeway.
Police say preliminary investigation revealed that Wattkins had actually parked his car in the middle of the ramp with the lights off, although it wasn't immediately clear if the vehicle was having mechanical issues.
Police say Wattkins exited his vehicle and was standing along the driver's side when another vehicle entered the ramp. According to police, the driver attempted to avoid hitting the vehicle, which they did not see, striking Wattkins in the process.
Police say Wattkins was then thrown over the side of the ramp and landed next to moving traffic on westbound I-94. He was transported to Henry Ford Hospital and pronounced dead.
Investigators say alcohol could be a factor, in regards to Wattkins.
The freeway was closed for about three hours while police investigated, but has since reopened.
The accident remains under investigation.
For the latest from the roads, stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 during Traffic and Weather on the 8s, 24-hours a day. Check for recent traffic incidents now on the CBS Detroit Traffic Page.
