MATTAWAN, Michigan: Two Mattawan High School students have died and three others were injured after a vehicle carrying five teenagers crashed into a tree in Texas Township, near Mattawan, authorities said.
The crash occurred shortly after 3:20 a.m. on Sunday, October 18, along West R Avenue near South 2nd Street, according to the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office. The vehicle was travelling west when it left the roadway and struck a tree. The circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation.
The two teenagers who died were identified as 15-year-old Jordyn Bigham and 16-year-old Aurora Ruckert. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. All five occupants were students at Mattawan High School.
Three Teenagers Injured in the Crash
The three surviving passengers were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Among them was 16-year-old Jadisson “Jada” Bigham, Jordyn’s older sister, who remained hospitalized following surgery, according to local reporting.
Another injured student, 17-year-old Liyra Fuller, was released from hospital on October 21. A third injured teenager was also discharged, although school officials have not publicly identified that student.
The families have faced an uncertain recovery period as they navigate medical treatment and the loss of their loved ones.
Investigation Into the Fatal Collision
Deputies said the vehicle left the south side of West R Avenue before striking the tree. Officials have not publicly established why the driver lost control, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities have not confirmed where the teenagers were travelling before the collision or who was driving the vehicle. The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office has asked anyone with information about the events leading up to the crash to contact investigators.
Michigan State Police, the Texas Township Fire Department and LIFE EMS assisted at the scene.
Mattawan Community Mourns the Students
The deaths have deeply affected the Mattawan community. Students, families and neighbours gathered for a vigil at Mattawan High School on October 19, observing 20 minutes of silence in memory of those killed and offering support to the injured teenagers and their families.
School officials arranged counselling and other support for students and staff coping with the tragedy.
The families have also received community support through fundraising efforts intended to help cover funeral expenses and medical costs.
As the investigation continues, the community is remembering the two students who died while hoping for recovery for those who survived.
Latest update: As of October 23, 2026, authorities had confirmed two deaths and three injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.