Novi, Michigan, September 24, 2025
News Summary
A tragic crash on eastbound I-96 near Beck Road in Novi resulted in the deaths of two drivers early Tuesday morning. Neena Wang, 30, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, were involved in a collision that ignited both vehicles after a tire issue led to a rear-end crash. Emergency responders pronounced both drivers dead at the scene. The accident disrupted traffic for hours while the highway was closed for cleanup. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, with condolences extended to the families of the victims.
Novi, Michigan – Two drivers were killed in a fiery crash early Tuesday morning on eastbound I-96 near Beck Road in Novi. The accident occurred around 2 a.m., leading to both vehicles involved catching fire after the collision.
The deceased drivers have been identified as Neena Wang, 30, from California, who was driving an Acura, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland, driving a Kia Soul. Wang’s Acura experienced a tire issue on the driver’s side, resulting in it stopping in the left lane of the freeway. Campbell’s Kia subsequently rear-ended Wang’s vehicle, causing both cars to ignite.
Emergency responders received a call regarding the crash at 2:08 a.m. Upon arrival, they found both vehicles fully engulfed in flames. Unfortunately, both drivers were the sole occupants of their cars and were unable to escape the wreckage, being pronounced dead at the scene.
The accident led to significant disruptions on the highway, with the eastbound lanes of I-96 shut down for several hours. The closure lasted until approximately 9 a.m., nearly six hours after the incident occurred, necessitating extensive cleanup efforts to clear debris and fuel from the freeway.
The Michigan Department of Transportation confirmed that traffic delays were substantial, compounded by additional accidents that occurred due to the fog conditions present that morning. At the time of the crash, Oakland County was under a dense fog advisory, which remained in effect until 9 a.m., reducing visibility in some areas to a quarter-mile.
The Novi Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, in collaboration with the Michigan State Police. Authorities have yet to release more detailed information regarding the ages or hometowns of the drivers until autopsy and toxicology reports are available.
The tragic incident has prompted police to extend their condolences to the families and loved ones of both drivers affected by the crash.
Crash Overview
- Location: Eastbound I-96 near Beck Road, Novi, Michigan
- Time of Accident: Approximately 2 a.m. on Tuesday
- Deceased Drivers: Neena Wang, 30 (California) and Sylvette Campbell, 57 (Westland)
- Vehicle Types: Acura and Kia Soul
- Accident Cause: Tire issue leading to a rear-end collision
- Response Time: Emergency services received the report at 2:08 a.m.
- Highway Closure: Eastbound lanes closed until approximately 9 a.m.
- Weather Condition: Dense fog advisory in effect
Background Information
Traffic incidents caused by mechanical failures, such as tire issues, remain a concern on highways, emphasizing the importance of vehicle maintenance. Fog conditions can exacerbate driving dangers, leading to tragedies such as this one. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash while maintaining safety measures for motorists in the area.
FAQ
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred on eastbound I-96 near Beck Road in Novi, Michigan.
What time did the accident take place?
The accident occurred around 2 a.m. on Tuesday.
Who were the drivers involved?
The deceased drivers were Neena Wang, 30, from California, and Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland.
What caused the crash?
Wang’s Acura had a tire issue that caused it to stop in the left lane, leading to Campbell’s Kia rear-ending the vehicle.
Were there any other injuries reported?
No, both drivers were the sole occupants of their vehicles and could not escape the wreckage, leading to their deaths.
How long was the highway closed?
The highway was closed for several hours, reopening around 9 a.m.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Accident Time | 2 a.m. |
| Location | I-96 near Beck Road, Novi |
| Fatalities | Two drivers |
| Vehicles Involved | Acura, Kia Soul |
| Weather Condition | Dense fog advisory |
| Highway Closure | Closed until 9 a.m. |
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Additional Resources
- Hometown Life: 2 Dead in Crash on I-96
- Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan
- WXYZ: 2 Dead After Multiple Vehicles Catch Fire
- Google Search: Novi Michigan crash
- Detroit News: 2 Killed in Fiery Crash on I-96
- Google Scholar: Traffic Incidents Michigan
- CBS News: Crash on I-96 Snarls Traffic
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Novi Michigan
- The Oakland Press: Report: 2 Dead After Crash
- Google News: Novi Michigan I-96 crash
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.
