Charlevoix High School Golf Team Involved in Tragic Benzie County Crash: Coach Doug Drenth and Six Students Injured
On the evening of Sunday, April 27, 2025, a devastating accident occurred on M-115 in Joyfield Township, Benzie County, Michigan, involving the Charlevoix High School varsity golf team. The team’s van, carrying six students aged 15 to 18 and their coach, Doug Drenth, was struck head-on by a stolen SUV driven by a 32-year-old man from Cedar, Michigan. The SUV driver, who was fleeing law enforcement due to felony charges including vehicle theft and felonious assault, was pronounced dead at the scene.
All seven occupants of the van sustained injuries and were transported to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Coach Drenth was airlifted due to the severity of his injuries. The conditions of the students and coach have not been officially released, but they remain under medical care.
The Charlevoix Public Schools community is deeply affected by this tragedy. Superintendent Mike Ritter and Principal Dan Terryberry released a statement expressing their sorrow and requesting privacy for those involved. Support services are being provided to students and staff during this difficult time.
The Michigan State Police are leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from local emergency services. The community continues to rally around the injured students and coach, offering thoughts and prayers for their recovery.