The community of Morenci and surrounding areas is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Abbigal Garbers, who died in a devastating two-vehicle crash Monday evening in LaSalle Township, just south of Monroe. The tragedy has left her family, friends, and neighbors in deep sorrow as they try to cope with the sudden loss of a young life filled with promise and potential. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, which also involves another driver who remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
The fatal collision happened around 5:28 p.m. on South Telegraph Road (U.S. 24), near West Stein Road. Deputies and emergency crews rushed to the scene after receiving multiple reports of a severe head-on crash involving two passenger vehicles. When responders arrived, they found both vehicles heavily damaged and their drivers critically injured, prompting an urgent medical response from several local agencies.
According to investigators, Abbigal had been driving a gray 2010 Toyota Corolla northbound when her vehicle crossed the centerline for reasons still under review. Her car entered the opposite lane and collided head-on with a gray 2015 Hyundai Sonata driven by 35-year-old Palmer G. Merkel of Temperance. The impact was catastrophic. The Hyundai came to rest in the middle of the roadway, while Abbigal’s Toyota was pushed to the southbound shoulder. The violent nature of the crash left both drivers in need of immediate hospital care.
Abbigal was transported to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, where doctors worked to save her. Tragically, she was later pronounced deceased. Her loss has left her community devastated, with many remembering her as a kind, bright, and loving young woman whose future was cut tragically short. Authorities have extended heartfelt condolences to her family and all who knew her, urging the community to keep them in their thoughts during this unimaginable time.
Merkel was taken to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, where he remains in serious condition. Deputies confirmed that both drivers were wearing seat belts, but the sheer force of a head-on collision can lead to severe, life-threatening injuries even when proper safety measures are taken. In the aftermath, agencies including the LaSalle Township Volunteer Fire Department, Monroe Community Ambulance, and the Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Program provided medical attention and emotional support to those affected.
Investigators have identified driver inattention as a possible factor in the crash, though they emphasize the case remains active. Teams continue to review roadway evidence, speak with witnesses, and analyze vehicle data to determine what led to the devastating collision. Authorities are urging anyone who saw the incident or has relevant information to contact the Traffic Services Division at 734-240-7548. Anonymous tips can also be shared with Crime Stoppers of Michigan at 800-SPEAK-UP as the community seeks answers and healing following the tragic loss of young Abbigal Garbers.
