2 Killed When Tree Slams Mini Cooper In Strong Winds

FREEMAN TOWNSHIP (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say two people were killed when a tree crashed onto their vehicle as powerful winds ripped through central Michigan.

Michigan State Police Sgt. Lance Cook says the tree fell Wednesday afternoon on a Mini Cooper heading east on the two-lane M-115 highway in Freeman Township.

Police say the accident killed the driver, 20-year-old Maxwell Muessig of Midland, Michigan, and passenger 23-year-old Margaretta Potter of Jamestown, Rhode Island.

Winds in the area were gusting more than 50 mph. The strong winds knocked out electrical service to more than a million customers statewide. Many schools were closed Thursday and there were reports of damage to numerous properties.

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