By Crash News Writer 
Monroe County, MI (November 25, 2025) – A devastating head-on crash claimed the life of a teenage driver and left another individual seriously injured Monday evening in LaSalle Township.
According to the Michigan State Police, the crash occurred around 5:28 p.m. on November 24 along South Telegraph Road, just north of West Stein Road. Investigators say 19-year-old Abbigal Garbers of Morenci was driving a 2010 Toyota Corolla northbound when, for reasons still under investigation, she veered across the centerline and collided head-on with a 2015 Hyundai Sonata driven by 35-year-old Palmer G. Merkel of Temperance.
Both drivers were wearing seatbelts, and airbags deployed in both vehicles. Garbers was transported to Toledo Hospital in Ohio, where she later died from her injuries. Merkel was taken to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo and remains in serious condition. Authorities noted that driver inattention is considered a contributing factor in the incident.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
Information in this report is based on early findings and may be revised as authorities continue their investigation.
- The identity of the deceased driver has been confirmed as 19-year-old Abbigal Garbers.
- Police are still determining the full scope of contributing factors.
- Further updates, including toxicology reports and potential citations, will follow as released.
If you have questions about these types of accidents, visit our frequently asked questions in Michigan .
Support for victims and families can also be found at accident resources in Michigan .
This post is informational and based on public sources. It is not legal advice. For complete terms, view our disclaimer.
Families seeking answers or justice are encouraged to speak with a Michigan personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to explore your legal options.