Derec Nelson Obituary, Death – Authorities in Delta County are investigating a two-vehicle crash that resulted in the death of a 26-year-old Escanaba man on October 17. According to the Delta County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred near the intersection of US-2/41 and Highland Golf Course. Deputies received multiple emergency calls reporting the collision and quickly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found two heavily damaged vehicles, one of which had rolled onto its side as a result of the impact.
Both drivers were trapped inside their vehicles, prompting an extensive rescue effort by emergency personnel. The drivers were identified as 61-year-old Thomas Murray of Bark River and 26-year-old Derec Nelson of Escanaba. Rescue teams worked to safely remove both men from their vehicles, but sadly, Nelson sustained severe injuries and did not survive. Murray was treated at the scene, though details about his condition have not been released.
The sheriff’s office reported that the cause of the crash remains unknown at this time. Investigators are currently reviewing all available evidence to determine what may have led to the collision. Factors such as road conditions, visibility, and potential mechanical issues are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not yet stated whether weather played a role in the incident, but October conditions in the Upper Peninsula often bring challenges such as early dusk, wet roads, or reduced traction, which can complicate driving. Officials plan to review witness statements, vehicle data, and physical evidence from the scene to gain a clearer understanding of the sequence of events.
The crash drew a large emergency response from several local and state agencies. Alongside the Delta County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, Escanaba Public Safety, Rampart EMS, and the Ford River Fire Department all assisted with rescue operations and traffic control. Crews worked for several hours to secure the area, clear debris, and safely remove the vehicles from the roadway.
US-2/41 is one of the major routes through Delta County and frequently carries both local and through traffic. The stretch near Highland Golf Course can be busy, especially during evening hours, and officials temporarily closed portions of the highway to ensure safety during the emergency response. Traffic was rerouted while investigators and cleanup crews completed their work.
As part of standard procedure, an accident reconstruction team has been assigned to analyze the crash scene. This process involves documenting tire marks, vehicle positions, and other critical evidence to determine how the collision occurred. Authorities have stated that it may take several weeks before a full report is released.
Community members in Escanaba and Bark River have expressed their condolences to the families involved. The loss of a young member of the community has deeply affected residents, and several friends of the victim have shared memories online, remembering Nelson as hardworking and kindhearted.
The Delta County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or noticed unusual driving activity in the area that morning to come forward with information. Even small details, officials say, can help piece together a more accurate understanding of what happened.
While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, authorities are once again reminding motorists to practice safe driving habits — including wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions, and adjusting speed to match road and weather conditions.
The Sheriff’s Office extended appreciation to all first responders and bystanders who assisted at the scene. They also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of local fire, medical, and law enforcement teams who worked together under challenging circumstances.
The investigation continues, and officials will release additional information as it becomes available.
