CASS CITY, MI — Tragedy struck Tuscola County on September 26, 2025, when a devastating crash at the intersection of Hurds Corner Road and Deckerville Road claimed the lives of three Cass City residents and left five others seriously injured. Authorities have now charged 55-year-old Pavel B. Shchukin of Florida in connection with the incident.
According to Tuscola County officials, Shchukin faces three counts of Moving Violation Causing Death, each carrying a maximum sentence of one year, as well as five counts of Moving Violation Causing Serious Impairment of a Body Function, each with a maximum sentence of 93 days. He is currently being held at the Tuscola County Jail on a $100,000 cash or surety bond.
The Incident
The crash occurred on a busy Friday evening at the intersection of Hurds Corner and Deckerville roads, a rural area that local residents describe as generally quiet. Emergency responders rushed to the scene after multiple 911 calls reported a severe collision involving several vehicles.
Upon arrival, first responders found multiple victims in critical condition. Despite immediate medical attention, three individuals tragically succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Five others were transported to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving treatment for serious injuries. The identities of the victims have not yet been publicly released as families are being notified.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with debris scattered across the roadway and emergency crews working tirelessly to assist victims. “It was just devastating,” said one local resident who witnessed the aftermath. “You don’t expect something like this to happen in our community.”
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Pavel B. Shchukin, the driver involved, has been formally charged with multiple counts related to the crash. The charges of Moving Violation Causing Death reflect the seriousness of the fatalities, while the charges of Moving Violation Causing Serious Impairment of a Body Function address the significant injuries suffered by survivors.
Shchukin remains in custody at the Tuscola County Jail, and authorities have stated that he is being held on a $100,000 cash or surety bond. Legal experts note that while the maximum sentences may seem short compared to the loss of life, Michigan law specifies these limits under current statutes for moving violations resulting in death or serious injury.
Community Response
The Cass City community has been left reeling from the tragedy. Local leaders and residents expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and concern for those still recovering. Counseling services and support resources have been made available for affected families and witnesses.
“Events like this remind us how fragile life can be,” said a local official. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims and those injured. We are committed to supporting our community through this difficult time.”
Residents have also organized vigils and memorials to honor the lives lost, while traffic safety groups are calling for increased awareness and enforcement in the area to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Ongoing Investigation
The Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities are reviewing vehicle speeds, road conditions, and witness statements as part of the ongoing inquiry. Further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses and the legal process unfolds.
This tragedy marks one of the deadliest traffic incidents in Tuscola County in recent years, leaving a lasting impact on the close-knit Cass City community. Residents are urging drivers to exercise caution, particularly in rural areas, to prevent such devastating accidents from occurring again.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media