Full Notification

Two Vehicle Fatal Crash
 
Sheriff Richard J. Behnke reports that on 07/04/2021 at approximately 16:26 hours his office was called to investigate a crash involving two motor vehicles. The crash occurred on M-51 south of Crystal Springs Rd. in Pokagon Twp., Cass County Michigan.  
 
From the investigation it was identified that the two vehicles collided head on while on M-51.  43-year-old, South Bend resident, Denise Lamb, was driving southbound when she swerved into oncoming traffic and collided with another vehicle head on. 26-year-old Edwardsburg resident, James Karasek, was driving north bound when they were struck by Lamb. Also, in Karasek's vehicle were 27-year-old Edwardsburg resident, Gina Karasek, and 1 year old James Karasek. James Sr. and Gina Karasek did sustain injuries from the crash and were transported to St. Joseph Medical Center. Denise did succumb to injuries at the scene. The 1 year old was not injured in the crash but was transported to St. Joseph Medical Center. 
 
This case remains under investigation. Drugs and alcohol are not believed to be a factor in this crash. Seat belts were worn by all occupants.
 
Assisting agencies on scene were Pokagon Township Fire Department, PrideCare, SMCAS, Pokagon Tribal Police Department and Trues Towing.