Bruce Wagner and Steve Spenle Obituary: MDOT Workers Killed in U.S. 127 Work Zone Crash
The Michigan community is mourning the tragic loss of Bruce Wagner and Steve Spenle, two Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) workers whose lives were cut short while they were serving motorists and improving road safety.
Wagner, 51, and Spenle, 49, were killed on May 26 in a devastating crash on northbound U.S. 127 near Holt Road in Alaiedon Township, according to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office.
Both men dedicated their working lives to serving the people of Michigan through their roles with MDOT. Their commitment to maintaining and improving the state’s roadways made a lasting impact on countless motorists and communities.
Authorities said the fatal crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 24-year-old Tyler Reck was traveling at a high rate of speed before losing control and striking the two workers in the highway work zone.
Following the investigation, prosecutors charged Reck with two counts of reckless driving causing death and two counts of moving violation causing death in a work zone. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
News of Bruce Wagner and Steve Spenle’s deaths has brought deep sorrow to their families, coworkers, friends, and the wider MDOT community. Colleagues are remembering them as dedicated employees who took pride in their work and played an important role in keeping Michigan’s roads safe.
Their deaths serve as a painful reminder of the dangers faced by highway workers every day as they work near active traffic to protect and serve the public.
As loved ones and coworkers continue to grieve, they are honoring Bruce and Steve’s dedication, professionalism, and the legacy they leave behind.
Bruce Wagner and Steve Spenle will be deeply missed and forever remembered by their families, colleagues, and all who were impacted by their service.
