ROYAL OAK, Mich. — Michigan State Police say a dangerous combination of extreme speeding and an active construction zone led to the arrest of a driver late Wednesday night on Interstate 696.

A Metro North trooper was patrolling westbound I-696 near Campbell Road when a Dodge Durango came into view traveling well above the posted limit. In the 60 mph active construction zone, the SUV was clocked at 101 mph before the driver was stopped.

Firearm Found During Stop

During the traffic stop, the driver disclosed having a Glock .40 caliber handgun in a backpack on the front passenger seat, according to state police. The firearm was seized and the driver taken into custody.

Prosecutors are now reviewing the case to determine specific charges, which could include reckless driving, speeding in a work zone, and potential firearm-related violations.

Police Condemn Reckless Driving in Work Zones

“We continue to see drivers driving at high speeds across the state,” said Mike Shaw, spokesperson for Michigan State Police in metro Detroit. “Driving over one hundred miles an hour in a construction zone does not only put the driver at risk, it is also a danger to the workers in the zone and other drivers. Great job getting this dangerous driver and firearm off the street.”

Risks in Work Zones

Work zones are hazardous environments where speed magnifies risk. The I-696 corridor through Royal Oak is undergoing significant construction work, with lane shifts, narrowed shoulders, and crews working close to moving traffic.

According to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), driving at high speeds in these areas can dramatically reduce reaction time, making it harder to avoid collisions with workers, equipment, or other vehicles.

Michigan Work Zone Penalties

In Michigan, fines for speeding in an active construction zone are doubled. Reckless driving at extreme speeds — particularly over 100 mph — can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, license suspension, and jail time.

MDOT’s Work Zone Safety Tips

To prevent dangerous incidents like this, MDOT reminds drivers to:

• Expect changes: Speed limits may drop, lanes may shift, and workers or equipment may enter the roadway unexpectedly.
• Minimize distractions: Keep your attention on the road; avoid phones and other distractions.
• Follow all signs & instructions: Construction crews are trained to manage traffic flow safely — obey their directions.
• Avoid speeding & tailgating: Maintain a safe distance and slow down, especially since fines are doubled.
• Stay alert: Traffic in work zones can stop or change lanes suddenly.
• Be patient: These projects are meant to improve road safety and travel conditions long-term.

Bigger Picture

The arrest underscores a broader trend in Michigan where excessive speeding has increased since the pandemic. State police have launched targeted patrols in high-risk areas, particularly around active construction sites, to curb dangerous driving behaviors.

With the I-696 project scheduled to continue into next year, law enforcement says they will maintain a strong presence in the corridor to protect both workers and drivers.

Originally reported by Jalen Williams in Detroit Free Press.