News

Actions

Teen Driver Who Died In Crash Was Texting At The Time

Posted at 10:47 AM, Jun 19, 2014
and last updated 2014-06-19 11:11:39-04

JACOB FREYBLER1TALLMADGE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (June 19, 2014) — Jacob Freybler, 17, identified as the driver killedafter crossing the center line was texting behind the wheel, police said Thursday.

Freybler was driving southbound on 8th Avenue north of Lincoln Street around 10:45 p.m. when his car crossed the center line and hit a northbound SUV. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said early Thursday that Freybler was texting while driving.

The driver of the SUV, who was unnamed, suffered broken bones. A passenger in the SUV was unhurt.

According to Michigan Secretary of State, the teen received his driver’s license in March.

Coincidentally, an education program for Consumers Energy employees and families aimed at reducing texting and driving is scheduled June 19 at 2 p.m. at Consumers Energy, 4000 Clay Avenue SW, Wyoming. The program is presented by UNITE’s Arrive Alive Tour 2014.