Shortly after 11:30 a.m. Monday, the Michigan State Police released a statement summarizing its initial investigation into a fatal traffic crash that happened earlier today at approximately 7 a.m. in Sturgis Township. The incident happened on U.S. Highway 12 near Shimmel Road.

A 32-year-old male motorcyclist from Sturgis was traveling westbound on the highway when he attempted to pass two vehicles, a passenger car and a semi-tractor trailer. While passing the semi, the motorcyclist struck a third vehicle, described as a SUV traveling eastbound, head on.

The motorcyclist, who was wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene. The SUV driver, a 40-year-old woman from White Pigeon, sustained only minor injuries. She was wearing her safety belt.

Neither alcohol nor drugs are considered to be a factor in the crash. Speed and improper passing are believed to be factors. Shortly before 12 p.m., the roadway reopened after processing and cleanup of the scene.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department and LifeCare. The incident remains open pending further investigation.