The Escanaba community is mourning the loss of 26-year-old Derec Nelson, who died in a devastating two-vehicle crash on the evening of October 17, 2025, along US-2/41 near Highland Golf Course in Delta County.
According to the Delta County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene shortly after 8 p.m. following reports of a serious collision involving two vehicles. When emergency crews arrived, they found Nelson critically injured and trapped inside a heavily damaged car. Firefighters used specialized rescue tools to extricate him from the wreckage.
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Despite immediate life-saving efforts by emergency responders, Derec Nelson was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed his identity after notifying his family. The second driver involved in the crash was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is reported to be in stable condition.
Investigators believe the crash occurred when one vehicle attempted to make a turn near the entrance of the golf course, leading to a violent impact that caused severe front-end damage to both vehicles. Debris scattered across the highway, forcing officials to temporarily close the roadway for several hours as crews cleared the scene.
The Delta County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by Michigan State Police accident reconstruction experts, continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are reviewing several potential factors, including speed, visibility, and possible driver impairment.
Witnesses traveling along US-2/41 told investigators they saw headlights swerving moments before the impact, followed by a loud crash and screeching tires. Police are analyzing those statements and reviewing available dashcam footage to better understand what led to the fatal collision.
Officials reminded drivers to use extra caution when traveling along US-2/41, especially at night. The area near Highland Golf Course has a history of serious accidents due to limited lighting and heavy traffic.
Friends, family, and coworkers of Derec Nelson have described him as a hardworking, kind-hearted young man whose life was filled with potential. In the days following the crash, mourners have placed flowers, candles, and messages of remembrance near the crash site in his honor.
In a statement, the Delta County Sheriff’s Office extended its condolences to Nelson’s family and thanked first responders for their efforts. Officials said a full accident report will be released once the investigation is complete.
As the community grieves this tragic loss, residents across Escanaba and Delta County continue to call for safer roadways and greater caution behind the wheel — hoping to prevent another heartbreaking tragedy like the one that claimed the life of Derec Nelson.