Shannon Preston Obituary, WAVERLY TOWNSHIP, MICH. — Shannon Preston, a 37-year-old woman from Lawrence, died following a head-on collision late Friday night on M-43 in Waverly Township, according to local authorities. The crash occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. on July 3, 2026, near the intersection of M-43 and 46th Street.
Deputies responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash and immediately assisted with patient triage before launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. Preliminary findings indicate that a westbound SUV crossed the center line and entered the eastbound lane, where it collided head-on with an oncoming SUV.
Investigators said heavy rainfall and poor visibility at the time of the crash may have been contributing factors, although the exact cause remains under investigation. Authorities confirmed there were two occupants in each vehicle involved in the collision.
Shannon Preston, who was driving the westbound SUV, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 27-year-old female passenger from Lawrence sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The occupants of the eastbound SUV, identified as an 18-year-old man from Kalamazoo and an 18-year-old woman from White Pigeon, also sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Both were taken to area hospitals for medical care.
Emergency crews remained at the scene for several hours as investigators documented evidence and cleared the roadway. M-43 was closed for approximately four hours before reopening to traffic once the investigation and cleanup efforts were completed.
Shannon Preston’s passing has deeply saddened her family, friends, and members of the Lawrence community, who continue to remember her life while offering prayers and support for those injured in the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the collision and are expected to release additional information as it becomes available. May she rest in peace.
