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William Harold Schmidt, 71, of Utica, was air lifted by St. Mary's Flight Care, of Saginaw, to Hurley Medical Center, in Flint, with severe injuries.

Joseph Christopher Hayes, 19, of Utica, was transported by Lapeer County EMS to Lapeer Regional Medical Center. Arthur Victor Remising, 31, of Decker, was transported by Marlette Ambulance to Marlette Regional Hospital.

The 2:41 p.m. crash occurred after the 2008 black Land Rover, driven by Hayes, with Schmidt as a passenger, crossed the center line while southbound on M-53. The Land Rover struck the northbound brown 2001 Mercury Marquis driven by Remising.

"All three occupants were wearing seat belts which is credited for saving their lives," said Michigan State Police trooper Denis McGuckin in a report. "Alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the accident."

Remising was trapped inside the Mercury and freed by rescuers. Both vehicles weren't in driveable condition and were towed from the accident scene.

Michigan State Police troopers from the Lapeer Post were assisted at the scene by the Lapeer County Sheriff's Department, Almont Police Department, Lapeer County 9-1-1, Lapeer County EMS, Goodland Township Fire Department, Imlay City Fire Department and Med-Flight.

Schmidt's condition couldn't be updated by press time. Both Hayes and Remising were treated and released from hospital care.

The crash remains under investigation by the state police.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com