Lapeer man faces new charges in Thanksgiving crash that killed 5-year-old daughter, injures 2-year-old son

A 31-year-old Lapeer man named Austin Thorpe faces multiple felony charges following a Thanksgiving Day crash on November 27, 2025. The accident in Bruce Township resulted in the death of his 5-year-old daughter and injured his 2-year-old son. Prosecutors allege that Thorpe crossed through the center turn lane of M-53 while driving one vehicle.