Two drivers were killed Tuesday afternoon, October 27, 2026, after their vehicles collided in a nearly head-on crash in Grant Township, according to the Oceana County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. on South Oceana Drive, south of West Webster Road, involving a 2014 Chevrolet Malibu and a 2021 Hyundai Tucson.
Authorities identified the drivers as Austin Martinez, 21, of New Era, and Graciela Esqueda, 64, of Shelby. The two vehicles were travelling in opposite directions when they collided.
Both drivers sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene, officials said.
Emergency responders arrived to find the drivers trapped inside their vehicles. Personnel from Grant Township Fire and Rescue used hydraulic rescue equipment, commonly known as the Jaws of Life, to remove them from the wreckage.
An AeroMed medical helicopter was also requested, and its crew assisted emergency personnel at the scene.
South Oceana Drive was closed for several hours while first responders worked and investigators examined the crash site. The road reopened at approximately 6:22 p.m.
Crash reconstruction specialists were called to help determine the circumstances that led to the collision. Authorities have not announced a final determination of the cause.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as officials establish the events leading up to the fatal crash.
