MONITOR TOWNSHIP, MI — As a Monitor Township firefight continues recovering after being struck by a hit-and-run driver, the community is donating funds to help him in his convalescence.
Firefighter Jeff Sargeson suffered severe injuries in the crash on eastbound US-10 near Interstate 75 early on Jan. 1. He was released from the hospital by Jan. 4.
“He is now at home, dealing with a broken left ankle, a broken left leg, severely bruised ribs, and numerous cuts and bruises,” said local resident Jacob Sommerville, who on Jan. 10 launched a GoFundMe campaign for Sargeon’s medical expenses. “The physical and emotional toll of this incident is significant, and Jeff faces an uphill battle to regain his health.”
The campaign has raised more than $950 on Jan. 12.
“The funds raised will go towards Jeff’s medical expenses, rehabilitation, and any other unforeseen costs associated with his recovery,” Sommerville said. “Jeff has dedicated his life to serving and protecting our community, and now it’s our turn to stand by him in his time of need.”
Sargeson has been with the Monitor Township Fire Department for 15 years and has also worked as a substitute teacher.
At about 12:45 a.m. on Jan. 1, Sargeson and other firefighters responded to a two-vehicle crash on eastbound US-10 near Interstate 75. After they cleared the scene, Sargeson noticed another vehicle had slid off the road, said Monitor Township Fire Chief John Kramer.
Sargeson stopped to make sure the occupants were OK and helped them get their vehicle unstuck. Just then, another vehicle came by and lost control, striking the just-freed one, Kramer said.
A pickup truck then also came through and lost control. Sargeson turned and was struck by the truck, the impact launching off the ground and into some nearby grass, Kramer said.
The truck’s driver fled the scene.
The Michigan State Police are investigating the collision. The agency described the striking truck as a blue 2019 Chevrolet Colorado pickup, with heavy front-end damage.
After police put out the description, a suspect surrendered to police for questioning alongside an attorney, said MSP Lt. Kimberly Vetter. The man has not been arrested and investigators are requesting charges from prosecutors, Vetter said.
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