Novi, September 24, 2025
News Summary
A tragic crash on I-96 in Novi resulted in the deaths of two individuals early Tuesday morning. The accident involved a Nissan sedan and a Kia Soul, both of which caught fire following the impact. Authorities have identified the victims and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which appears to be linked to vehicle malfunction. This incident highlights the alarming safety concerns on Michigan roadways, with significant fatalities reported this year.
Novi
Two people died in a crash on I-96 in Novi early Tuesday morning. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. near the Beck Road exit. Authorities have identified the deceased victims as Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland, Michigan, and Neena Wang, 30, from California.
The crash involved two vehicles: an Acura sedan driven by Wang and a Kia Soul driven by Campbell. Wang’s Acura was stopped in the left lane due to a malfunction with the driver-side front tire when it was rear-ended by Campbell’s Kia. Upon impact, both vehicles caught fire.
Emergency personnel received the call at approximately 2:08 a.m. and found both vehicles fully engulfed in flames upon their arrival. There were no passengers in either vehicle, making this incident even more tragic. Traffic was rerouted, and the I-96 freeway was closed for several hours while emergency services worked at the scene. The freeway was reopened around 9:30 a.m. on the same day.
The Novi Police Department is leading the ongoing investigation, with assistance from Michigan State Police. Preliminary investigations indicate that vehicle malfunction likely led to the crash. Autopsy and toxicology reports for both victims are pending as authorities continue to gather information regarding the incident.
The Novi Police Department expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time. This tragic accident adds to a worrying trend of road fatalities in Michigan, with 27 deaths reported since the previous week, bringing the total to 715 deaths so far this year.
Background on Road Safety in Michigan
This incident underscores the ongoing issues with road safety in Michigan, where an alarming number of fatalities have occurred on state roadways. The figure of 715 deaths this year reflects broader challenges regarding vehicle maintenance, driver safety, and overall traffic conditions.
As investigations continue, authorities emphasize the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices to help prevent such tragic events in the future.
Summary of the Incident
- Location: I-96, near Beck Road exit, Novi, Michigan
- Time of Incident: Approximately 2 a.m. on Tuesday
- Victims: Sylvette Campbell (57, Westland, Michigan), Neena Wang (30, California)
- Vehicles Involved: Acura sedan and Kia Soul
- Investigation Status: Ongoing, led by the Novi Police Department with assistance from Michigan State Police
- Traffic Impact: I-96 closed for several hours, reopened around 9:30 a.m.
- Fatalities in Michigan: 715 deaths reported this year
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victims | Sylvette Campbell, 57, and Neena Wang, 30 |
| Time | 2 a.m. |
| Vehicles | Acura and Kia |
| Cause | Vehicle malfunction observed |
| Investigation | Novi Police Department and Michigan State Police |
| Traffic Status | I-96 closed until 9:30 a.m. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the crash occur?
The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on Tuesday.
Where did the collision take place?
The crash happened on I-96 near the Beck Road exit in Novi, Michigan.
Who are the victims involved in the crash?
The deceased victims were identified as Sylvette Campbell, 57, from Westland, Michigan, and Neena Wang, 30, from California.
What vehicles were involved in the crash?
The crash involved an Acura sedan driven by Neena Wang and a Kia Soul driven by Sylvette Campbell.
What caused the crash according to preliminary investigations?
Preliminary investigations indicate that vehicle malfunction led to the crash.
How many fatalities have been reported in Michigan this year?
There have been a total of 715 fatalities reported in Michigan roadways so far this year.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Fox 2 Detroit: Fiery Crash Closes I-96 Near Beck Road
- Hometown Life: 2 Dead in Crash on I-96 Near Beck Road in Novi
- WXYZ: 2 Dead After Multiple Vehicles Catch Fire in Freeway Crash on I-96 in Novi
- Detroit News: 2 Killed in Fiery Crash on I-96 in Novi
- CBS News: Crash on I-96 in Novi Snarls Oakland County Traffic for Hours
- Wikipedia: Road Safety
- Google Search: Michigan Road Safety
- Google Scholar: Vehicle Malfunction Accidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Google News: Traffic Accidents Michigan
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.
