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Fatal Crash on I-96 in Novi Claims Two Lives

Emergency response vehicles at a crash scene on a foggy highway.

Novi, MI, September 24, 2025

News Summary

A tragic accident on Interstate 96 in Novi, MI, resulted in the deaths of two drivers early Tuesday morning. Neena Wang, 30, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, were involved in a collision that left both vehicles in flames. The incident occurred under dense fog conditions, prompting an investigation by local law enforcement. Authorities emphasize the need for caution on the roads, especially in adverse weather.

Novi, MI – Two people were killed in a crash on Interstate 96 in Oakland County, MI. The crash occurred early Tuesday morning, September 23, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m. The incident took place in the eastbound lanes of I-96 near Beck Road in Novi. The victims were identified as Neena Wang, 30, from California, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland.

According to preliminary investigations, Wang was driving an Acura and had pulled over to the side of the road due to a tire or mechanical problem. Campbell was driving a Kia and rear-ended Wang’s Acura after she had stopped in the left lane. Following the collision, both vehicles burst into flames, making it impossible for either driver to escape from their vehicles. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

As a result of the crash, all eastbound lanes on I-96 were closed starting at Beck Road (Exit 160). Vehicles were redirected to re-enter the freeway at Novi Road (Exit 162). The highway remained closed for nearly six hours and eventually reopened at approximately 9 a.m.

In addition to this fatal incident, another accident occurred around 7:15 a.m. on eastbound I-96, ahead of the initial collision near Milford Road. At the time of these accidents, the area was under a dense fog advisory, issued at 3:40 a.m. and lasting until 9 a.m. Visibility was reported to be as low as a quarter-mile in parts of Southeast Michigan.

The Novi Police Department is conducting the investigation into the crash with assistance from Michigan State Police. As part of the investigation, authorities are awaiting autopsy and toxicology results for both drivers. The Novi Police Department has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased drivers.

This tragic crash contributes to a concerning increase in fatalities on Michigan roadways. A reported 27 deaths occurred statewide in the week leading up to this incident.

Investigation and Community Response

Authorities are focused on determining the circumstances of the crash, especially considering the weather conditions at the time. Dense fog is a significant factor that can impair visibility for drivers, possibly leading to such incidents. Local law enforcement and state police are expected to collaborate closely in the investigation to provide clarity into the cause of this fatal accident.

Public Safety Notice

Officials urge drivers in foggy conditions to exercise extreme caution. Recommendations include reducing speed, using headlights, and maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The ongoing increase in road fatalities highlights the critical need for driver awareness and adherence to safety protocols while on the road.

About the Event

The events of September 23 serve as a call to action for local communities and drivers to prioritize safety measures, especially when navigating challenging weather conditions.

FAQ Section

What happened in the crash on I-96 in Novi?

Two people were killed in a crash on Interstate 96 in Oakland County, MI.

When did the crash occur?

The crash occurred early Tuesday morning, September 23, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m.

Who were the victims of the crash?

The victims were identified as Neena Wang, 30, from California, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland.

What caused the crash?

Wang had pulled over to the side of the road due to a tire or mechanical problem, and Campbell rear-ended her vehicle after it had stopped in the left lane.

What happened after the collision?

Both vehicles burst into flames following the collision, and neither driver was able to escape. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

What were the road conditions at the time of the crash?

The area was under a dense fog advisory, with visibility reported to be as low as a quarter-mile in parts of Southeast Michigan.

How long was I-96 closed after the crash?

The highway remained closed for nearly six hours and eventually reopened at approximately 9 a.m.

What has been the trend in road fatalities in Michigan?

This crash adds to a recent increase in fatalities on Michigan roadways, with a reported 27 deaths occurring statewide in the week prior.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location Eastbound I-96 near Beck Road, Novi, MI
Date and Time September 23, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m.
Victims Neena Wang, 30, from California; Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland
Cause of Crash Rear-end collision following vehicle breakdown
Outcome Both vehicles burst into flames; both drivers pronounced dead at the scene
Road Closure Duration Closed for nearly six hours, reopened at approximately 9 a.m.
Other Incidents Additional accident occurred at 7:15 a.m. on eastbound I-96
Weather Conditions Dense fog advisory with visibility as low as a quarter-mile
Recent Trends Increase in road fatalities in Michigan, 27 deaths statewide in previous week

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Additional Resources

Fatal Crash on I-96 in Novi Claims Two Lives

STAFF HERE PLYMOUTH WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PLYMOUTH WRITER

The PLYMOUTH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPlymouth.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Plymouth, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Plymouth Ice Festival, Art in the Park, and the Plymouth Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Plymouth, plus leading businesses in automotive and retail that power the local economy such as Roush Industries and Downtown Plymouth businesses. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HERENovi.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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