From Jay Niles, Chief of Police, Columbia Charter Township
“On March 20th, 2026, at 9:34 pm the Columbia Charter Township Police Department was dispatched to a traffic crash on Jefferson Rd east of S. Meridian Rd. On arrival the crash was investigated and based on that investigation it was determined that the west bound vehicle, a 2019 Ford Edge driven by 21-year-old Natalie E. Brosamer of Cambridge Township failed to maintain the lane crossing the center line striking the east bound vehicle, a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox driven by 54-year-old James A. Minnick of Brooklyn. The collision resulted in both vehicles becoming disabled and unable to continue traveling. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries because of this crash.
Natalie Brosamer
“As a result of the investigation Natalie E. Brosamer was arrested for operating while intoxicated with high BAC [blood alcohol concentration or content]. Once Brosamer was medically cleared she was lodged at the Jackson County Jail for this offense.
“On March 21st, 2026, the police report was forwarded to the Jackson County Prosecutor for review of charges. Upon completion of the review Brosamer was charged with operating while intoxicated with high BAC. This offense is punishable up to 180 days in jail. Brosamer was arraigned on this charge and was provided a pre-trial release bond with one of the conditions to include alcohol monitoring.
“Napoleon Township Police Department assisted with traffic control at the scene of the crash as both lanes of Jefferson Rd were closed while the crash was investigated and cleaned up. Columbia Charter Township Fire Department responded to provide medical aid for the occupants of the vehicles and Garvers Towing responded to remove the destroyed vehicles.
I’m growing weary from the perpetual reports of vehicle negligence, injuries and deaths on Jefferson Rd. Something has to change or it’s going to be more of the same.
Jefferson rd has been dangerous for decades. It has to much traffic, to limited a sight distance, to many deer, and to high a speed limit. Until you address those issues, starting with speed nothing will change.
I know North Stoney Lake Rd in Napoleon posted 45 mph going west, no post going East but coming off of 55mph. There are 4 regular deer crossing where you have to go 25- 30 mph at dusk!
Maybe Jefferson Road should be 45 miles an hour instead of 55.
Should be prison time