The Holt community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Lavar Ball and Dey Hatin Areal, who were killed in a devastating single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning on northbound US-127 near I-96.
According to the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 3:10 a.m. after reports of a serious crash involving a vehicle that left the roadway and crossed over I-96. Investigators said the vehicle veered off the highway for reasons still under investigation, leading to a violent collision that claimed two lives and left another man critically injured.
Both men were pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of their injuries. The driver, a 28-year-old Lansing man, was transported to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition.
Authorities said speed and alcohol are being investigated as possible contributing factors, though the exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined. The investigation remains ongoing as crash reconstruction teams work to piece together the events leading up to the collision.
The crash forced the temporary closure of both directions of US-127 for several hours while emergency crews worked the scene and investigators documented the wreckage. The roadway has since reopened.
As news of the tragedy spread through Holt, friends, family members, and neighbors have been left in shock and deep grief. Those who knew the victims are remembering them as loved and valued members of the community whose lives were taken far too soon.
Their sudden passing has left a lasting void in Holt, as the community comes together to offer prayers, support, and comfort to grieving loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
