Man Hit and Killed on I-96 in Detroit After Tripping With Gas Can

The Michigan State Police are reminding drivers of the importance of staying inside their vehicles if they experience a breakdown on the side of the road. This reminder comes after a tragic incident where a man lost his life after being struck on I-96 in Detroit late Tuesday night.

According to Fox 2 Detroit, a stranded motorist that ran out of gas pulled to the side of I-96 heading eastbound near I-75 in Detroit around 10 p.m. on Tuesday.

While returning to his vehicle with the gas can, the man tripped and fell as he crossed the freeway. Before he could get to his feet and continue crossing, he was struck by an oncoming vehicle. The 40-year-old man was killed from the impact.

The driver of the vehicle stopped after hitting the man and is cooperating with police.

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The incident proves how dangerous it is to try and cross a busy highway.

First-Lt. Mike Shaw:

It is important to remember that if you are involved in a crash or break down on the freeway to stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened. Call 911 and help will be sent to you. It is very dangerous to walk on the freeway, especially at night.

It's not uncommon to see someone walking along the highway with a gas can in hand after running out of fuel. Unfortunately, it's something that happens all too often. However, many people don't always think of the dangers that come with doing this.