In the quiet, rolling hills of Bainbridge Township, Berrien County, Michigan, a vibrant life was cut short in a heartbreaking tragedy. Just after 11 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the intersection of Meadowbrook Road and Michael Road became the scene of a devastating collision that claimed the life of 33-year-old Zachary Poole, a beloved firefighter, devoted father, and cherished friend.
Zachary, known affectionately as Zach to those who knew him, was riding his motorcycle eastbound on Meadowbrook Road, the cool night air rushing past as he navigated the familiar roads of his community. At the same moment, a 36-year-old woman from Coloma was maneuvering her Jeep, turning west onto Meadowbrook from Michael Road. In a cruel twist of fate, the paths of the two vehicles converged. The motorcycle slammed into the driver’s side of the Jeep, ejecting Zach from his bike. Despite wearing a helmet, he sustained catastrophic injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind a community in shock and grief.
The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office, investigating the crash, noted that speed and alcohol appear to have played a role in the tragedy, though no arrests have been made as the investigation continues. The stark details of the accident, reported around 11:18 p.m., paint a grim picture of a moment that forever altered the lives of those who knew Zach.
Zachary Poole was far more than a name in a news report. A dedicated firefighter, he had served with unwavering commitment for two years at his department and also lent his expertise to the Keeler Township Fire Department. His colleagues describe him as a beacon of professionalism, his skills matched only by his infectious humor and camaraderie. In the high-stakes world of firefighting, Zach was a steady hand, a reliable teammate who faced danger with courage and brought warmth to the firehouse with his quick wit and genuine care for others. His service extended beyond his department, touching the broader firefighting community in Southwest Michigan, where he was respected and admired.
Beyond the fire station, Zach’s life was rich with love and connection. A devoted father, son, and brother, he poured his heart into his family, creating memories that will linger in their hearts forever. Friends recall his boundless warmth, the kind of person who could light up a room with a joke or offer a steady shoulder in times of need. His unshakable dedication to helping others wasn’t confined to his professional life—it was the essence of who he was.
The news of Zach’s passing has sent ripples of grief through Bainbridge Township and beyond. The Berrien County Firefighters Association, a tight-knit community that Zach was a proud part of, is reeling from the loss of one of their own. Tributes have poured in, painting a vivid picture of a man whose legacy of bravery and kindness will endure. The community mourns not just a firefighter but a hero whose selflessness touched countless lives.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the focus remains on honoring Zach’s memory. His life, though tragically brief, was a testament to the power of service, love, and connection. In the quiet moments at the fire station, in the laughter of his family, and in the hearts of his friends, Zachary Poole’s spirit lives on—a shining light that no darkness can extinguish. His legacy of courage and compassion will forever be etched in the fabric of Berrien County, a reminder of the profound impact one life can have.
