Lisa Dawn LaPearl – Authorities in Oakland County, Michigan, are investigating a tragic vehicle accident that claimed the life of a Highland Township woman early Friday morning. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Harvey Lake Road, involving a single vehicle that overturned after leaving the roadway.
According to officials, the driver has been identified as 53-year-old Lisa Dawn LaPearl, a resident of Highland Township. Preliminary findings indicate that Ms. LaPearl was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Equinox southbound along the 2500 block of Harvey Lake Road when the vehicle reportedly crossed the centerline and veered off the pavement. The SUV traveled through a roadside ditch and struck a culvert, causing it to lift off the ground and overturn.
Deputies who arrived shortly after the crash discovered the vehicle resting on its passenger side in a nearby driveway. Emergency responders immediately assessed the situation and began rescue efforts. Ms. LaPearl was conscious when officers reached her and informed them that she was trapped inside the vehicle.
Her 30-year-old son, who was a passenger in the SUV, had managed to exit the overturned vehicle before emergency services arrived. According to deputies, he was walking nearby searching for the family dog, which had been traveling with them at the time of the accident.
Paramedics from the Highland Township Fire Department quickly responded to the scene and worked with law enforcement to safely extricate Ms. LaPearl from the vehicle. During the rescue operation, however, her condition worsened and she became unresponsive. Despite immediate life-saving measures by paramedics and deputies, Ms. LaPearl could not be revived and was later pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities expressed their condolences to her family and loved ones, emphasizing the deep sadness felt by both the community and emergency personnel who responded. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office stated that an autopsy has been scheduled to help determine the exact cause of death.
The department’s Crash Reconstruction Unit has taken over the investigation to carefully analyze all aspects of the incident. Investigators will review evidence such as tire marks, roadway conditions, and vehicle data to piece together what may have caused the vehicle to leave the roadway. They will also evaluate whether speed, fatigue, or any mechanical issues may have been contributing factors.
The sheriff’s office added that this portion of Harvey Lake Road can be challenging to navigate at night, particularly due to limited visibility and curves. Drivers are reminded to use caution, reduce speed in poorly lit areas, and ensure that vehicles are well-maintained to prevent potential mishaps.
Officials also praised the quick response and coordinated efforts of all emergency personnel involved, including deputies, firefighters, and paramedics who worked diligently to assist those at the scene. Their teamwork and professionalism, the sheriff’s office noted, reflect their ongoing dedication to community safety.
Residents of Highland Township have expressed sympathy and support for the family, sharing condolences on community forums and social media. Friends described Ms. LaPearl as a caring and kindhearted woman known for her love of family and animals. Her sudden passing has left many deeply saddened.
As the investigation continues, the sheriff’s office encourages anyone who may have witnessed the crash or noticed unusual activity in the area around the time of the incident to contact the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. Any additional information could help clarify the sequence of events that led to the tragic outcome.
Officials have not yet released any further details regarding the condition of Ms. LaPearl’s son or the family’s pet but confirmed that the investigation remains active. Updates are expected once the reconstruction team completes its review and the medical examiner releases the autopsy results.
In the meantime, authorities continue to remind all motorists to prioritize safety—especially during late-night travel—and to always wear seat belts, remain alert, and drive at safe speeds to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
