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Sheriff's Deputy Injured On Day He Retires, Loses Leg

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GROVELAND TWP. — An Oakland County Sheriff’s deputy had to have his leg amputated below the knee after a traffic accident that occurred following his retirement party.

Deputy Keith Palmer was riding on a motorcycle Friday, Oct. 8 when he was involved in a collision with another motorist.

“It’s very, very sad,” said Sheriff Michael Bouchard, “especially on a day that should have been a celebration of his career. “We’re doing all we can to help him and his family.”

Sheriff’s officials said the accident happened the same day as Palmer’s last day, celebrating his 28 years on the job, police said.

Palmer was heading northbound on Dixie Highway and had stopped at a traffic light at the Grange Hall Road intersection.

Another motorist heading north fell asleep at the wheel, drifted into the other northbound lane and struck Palmer, Michigan State Police said.

He was taken to Genesys Hospital.

Troopers said alcohol was not involved and it is suspected the motorist, a 22-year-old woman from Grand Blanc, had fallen asleep. She had only minor injuries.

Sheriff’s officials said Palmer is in good spirits despite the accident and surgery.

He was assigned to the Oakland County Circuit Court detention area.