Novi MI, September 23, 2025
News Summary
A tragic car accident occurred on Interstate 96 near Beck Road, claiming the lives of two drivers, Neena Wang and Sylvette Campbell. The crash, caused by a mechanical failure that led to a rear-end collision, resulted in both vehicles igniting in flames. Emergency responders were unable to rescue the drivers due to the intensity of the fire. The eastbound lanes of I-96 were closed for nearly six hours, and investigations are underway to determine the impact of dense fog on the incident.
Novi – A fatal car crash early Tuesday morning on Interstate 96 has claimed the lives of two drivers and led to a prolonged closure of the freeway. The incident occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. in the eastbound lanes near Beck Road. Emergency responders were alerted just seven minutes earlier at 2:08 a.m.
The collision involved two vehicles: an Acura driven by Neena Wang, 30, from California, and a Kia Soul driven by Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland. Reports indicate that Wang’s Acura encountered a mechanical issue and had come to a stop in the left inside lane. Campbell’s Kia was unable to stop in time and rear-ended Wang’s vehicle, leading to both cars becoming engulfed in flames, which trapped the drivers inside.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel found both vehicles ablaze, and the intense heat from the fire made it impossible for the occupants to escape. Despite the quick response from fire and rescue teams, both Wang and Campbell were pronounced dead at the scene. There were no passengers in either vehicle.
The aftermath of the crash led to the closure of the eastbound lanes of I-96 for nearly six hours as crews worked to clear debris and clean up fuel from the roadway. The freeway was reopened just before 9 a.m. Traffic was rerouted, and drivers were advised to seek alternative routes during the lengthy closure. According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, vehicles were able to re-enter the eastbound I-96 at Novi Road.
At the time of the crash, dense fog was reported in the area, with visibility dropping to a quarter-mile in some parts. In fact, an additional accident occurred on the same eastbound stretch of I-96 at 7:15 a.m., prior to the fatal collision. The Oakland County area was under a dense fog advisory from 3:40 a.m. to 9 a.m. that day.
Novi police are currently investigating the details of the crash and are working to gather further information about the drivers involved. The investigation aims to determine if the weather conditions contributed to the accident.
Key Facts Summary
- Fatal crash occurred at 2:15 a.m. on Tuesday.
- Involved an Acura and a Kia Soul.
- Both drivers, Neena Wang and Sylvette Campbell, died at the scene.
- Dense fog affected visibility during the time of the crash.
- Freeway closure lasted nearly six hours.
- Novi police are investigating the incident.
FAQs
What time did the crash occur?
The accident took place on Tuesday morning, with the first call made at 2:08 a.m.
Who were the victims of the crash?
The two drivers who died in the crash were Neena Wang, 30, of California, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, of Westland.
Was there inclement weather during the time of the crash?
Yes, the area was experiencing dense fog at the time, with visibility down to a quarter-mile in some areas.
How long was the freeway closed after the crash?
The freeway remained closed for nearly six hours and was reopened just before 9 a.m.
Are there any other accidents reported on I-96 around the same time?
Yes, an additional accident occurred at 7:15 a.m. on eastbound I-96 prior to the main crash.
Chart: Key Features of the I-96 Crash Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Interstate 96 near Beck Road, Novi |
| Time of Incident | 2:15 a.m., first call at 2:08 a.m. |
| Victims | Neena Wang, 30 (California), Sylvette Campbell, 57 (Westland) |
| Accident Type | Rear-end collision |
| Weather Conditions | Dense fog with visibility down to a quarter-mile |
| Freeway Closure Duration | Nearly six hours |
| Investigating Agency | Novi Police Department |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Serious Crash Involving Semi Truck on I-96 in Novi
Tragedy Strikes in Livonia: Pedestrian Hospitalized After I-96 Crash
Pedestrian Struck on I-96 in Livonia Sparks Safety Concerns
Two Michigan State Police Troopers Injured in Drunk Driving Incident During Traffic Stop
Early Morning Crash in Detroit Injures Two State Troopers Due to Impairment
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Crash on I-96 in Novi Snarls Oakland County Traffic
- Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan
- WXYZ: 2 Dead After Freeway Crash on I-96 in Novi
- Google Search: Novi crash I-96
- Fox 2 Detroit: Fiery Crash Closes I-96
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michigan
- Hometown Life: 2 Dead in Crash on I-96 Near Beck Road
- Google News: Novi I-96 accident
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland 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 Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
