Farmington Hills, Michigan, January 10, 2026
A tragic hit-and-run incident occurred in Farmington Hills, Michigan, where a 68-year-old man was fatally struck by a snowplow operated by Bryan Derryberry, who has been charged for leaving the scene. This incident raises concerns about road safety and accountability among municipal vehicle operators. Local authorities are investigating, and residents are encouraged to assist with information. The community is reminded of the importance of winter road safety measures.
Farmington Hills, Michigan: Snowplow Driver Charged in Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident
Subheadline
A tragic incident on New Year’s Day leads to charges against a snowplow operator amid ongoing investigations into road safety.
Incident Overview
Farmington Hills, Michigan, witnessed a heartbreaking incident on January 1, 2026, when a 68-year-old man was fatally struck by a snowplow in a hit-and-run. The driver, identified as 51-year-old Bryan Derryberry, has since been charged with leaving the scene of a deadly accident. Such events remind us of the ongoing discussions around road safety and the responsibilities of all drivers, particularly those operating heavy municipal vehicles.
Emerging evidence suggests that the incident occurred between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. on that fateful day, with emergency responders quickly arriving to transport the victim to Corewell Health Farmington Hills Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. The victim, a resident of Macomb County, underscores the importance of road vigilance during Michigan’s harsh winter months.
Driver’s Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Following the incident, the Farmington Hills Police Department launched a thorough investigation, leading to the identification of Derryberry as the snowplow driver by January 3, 2026. Operating his vehicle for the Road Commission for Oakland County, Derryberry is now arraigned on the serious charge of leaving the scene of a deadly accident. It is reported that he is cooperating with the ongoing investigation, an incident that may trigger broader discussions about accountability in public service roles.
The response from local authorities showcases Farmington Hills’ commitment to ensuring road safety within the community. Residents are encouraged to report any information that could assist in the investigation, indicating the community’s proactive stance on public safety matters.
Farmington Hills’ Road Safety Measures
Famously known for its rigorous winter road maintenance strategies, Farmington Hills has been proactive in implementing a variety of treatments to enhance road safety during winter conditions. The Department of Public Works is dedicated to ensuring that snowplows are adequately serviced and ready for deployment during snowstorms. Their renowned practice of using a mixture of beet juice and salt brine has garnered national recognition for its effectiveness and environmental benefits, significantly aiding in the battle against icy road surfaces.
As winter progresses, it remains crucial for all drivers, including municipal operators, to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic safety regulations. Incidents like this one shed light on the significant responsibilities that come with operating heavy machinery, particularly under challenging weather conditions.
The Impact on Community Safety Discourse
This tragic event has sparked dialogues around safety regulations and the need for accountability within municipal operations. It emphasizes not only the need for comprehensive road maintenance strategies but also the imperative for operators of heavy vehicles like snowplows to prioritize community safety. Encouraging a culture of safety among all drivers, especially within public service sectors, is vital to preventing future incidents.
Farmington Hills, like many communities, remains focused on ensuring the safety of its citizens while balancing the demands for efficient public services. As the investigation continues, it presents an opportunity for a reassessment of regulatory compliance and operational protocols to ensure similar events do not recur in the future.
Conclusion
The unfortunate circumstances surrounding the fatal hit-and-run incident in Farmington Hills serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of road safety. With ongoing investigations and a focus on implementing effective safety measures, the local community stands united in the belief that accountability is key to preventing such tragedies.
As residents, it is imperative to stay engaged with local governance, actively participating in discussions around public safety and supporting initiatives that enhance communal well-being. Together, we can work toward a more secure environment for all road users in Michigan.
FAQ
What happened in the Farmington Hills hit-and-run incident?
A 68-year-old man was fatally struck by a snowplow in a hit-and-run incident on January 1, 2026, in Farmington Hills, Michigan. The driver, 51-year-old Bryan Derryberry, has been charged with leaving the scene of a deadly accident.
Who is the driver involved in the incident?
The driver involved is 51-year-old Bryan Derryberry, who was operating a snowplow for the Road Commission for Oakland County at the time of the incident.
What charges has the driver faced?
Bryan Derryberry has been charged with leaving the scene of a deadly accident.
What is the background of Farmington Hills’ winter road maintenance?
Farmington Hills’ Department of Public Works prepares extensively for winter conditions, ensuring that snowplow trucks are serviced and ready for deployment during snowstorms. The DPW also utilizes a special mixture of beet juice and salt brine to treat icy road surfaces, a practice that has received national recognition for its effectiveness and environmental benefits.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 1, 2026 |
| Location | Middlebelt Road near Eldon Street, Farmington Hills, Michigan |
| Victim’s Age | 68 |
| Driver’s Age | 51 |
| Vehicle Involved | Snowplow operated by the Road Commission for Oakland County |
| Charge Against Driver | Leaving the scene of a deadly accident |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by Farmington Hills Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
