James Hettmansperger Vandalia, MI Death and Obituary – The community of Vandalia, Michigan, is mourning the tragic loss of James Hettmansperger, a 42-year-old resident who died in a devastating car crash on Monday evening, October 27, 2025, in Cass County’s Porter Township. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 6:02 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. 12 and M-217, a stretch of roadway known for heavy evening traffic and limited visibility during fall hours.
According to reports from the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Hettmansperger was driving his Jeep Liberty eastbound on U.S. 12 when he suddenly lost control of his vehicle. The Jeep crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a westbound GMC Sierra pickup truck towing a trailer. The impact was severe, causing significant damage to both vehicles.
Following the collision, Hettmansperger’s vehicle veered off the roadway and came to rest beside a utility pole. Emergency responders from Porter Township Fire Department, along with Cass County EMS, arrived quickly on the scene. Despite their best life-saving efforts, James Hettmansperger was pronounced dead at the scene due to the extent of his injuries.
The driver of the GMC Sierra, identified as Brett White, 44, of Elkhart, Indiana, fortunately did not sustain any injuries in the crash. Authorities confirmed that both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision, and there were no passengers in either vehicle. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has stated that alcohol and drugs do not appear to be factors in the crash, although the investigation remains ongoing.
The loss of James Hettmansperger has deeply saddened the Vandalia community, where he was known for his kind heart, dedication to his family, and strong work ethic. Friends and neighbors described him as a “genuine and dependable person who would do anything for those he cared about.” His sudden passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him best.
Local residents have since called for renewed attention to traffic safety along U.S. 12, a highway that has seen multiple accidents in recent years. They hope that increased signage and road safety measures can help prevent future tragedies of this kind.
As family and friends come together to remember James Hettmansperger, they reflect on a life marked by love, generosity, and integrity. Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced by the family at a later date. In the meantime, the community has expressed their condolences and prayers for Hettmansperger’s loved ones during this heartbreaking time.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the cause of the crash, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact local authorities.