KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Authorities have identified the driver killed in a fatal two-vehicle crash in Kalamazoo last week as 23-year-old Ivan Peña Perez.
The crash occurred around 2 a.m. on August 9, when Kalamazoo Public Safety officers responded to Riverview Drive and East Paterson Street for reports of a collision. Upon arrival, officers found two heavily damaged vehicles — one off the road with the driver trapped inside and the other abandoned near the intersection.
Perez was discovered inside the first vehicle, with smoke and fire coming from underneath. Officers quickly extinguished the flames and extricated him, but despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injuries.
“Kalamazoo Public Safety extends our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Mr. Perez during this incredibly difficult time,” said Captain Danielle Guilds of the Criminal Investigations Division. “We also want to assure the community that we remain committed to finding answers about what happened that night.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the crash to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139 or submit an anonymous tip through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer at 269-343-2100.