Chippewa County Sheriff remains in intensive care unit following collision (2 photos)

Chippewa County Sheriff Michael Bitnar is making slow steps forward in his recovery after he was involved in a motor vehicle collision while off-duty Aug. 10. 

Bitnar is currently in the intensive care unit of War Memorial Hospital in Sault Michigan, where he is being treated for what’s being described as severe internal injuries. 

“He still remains in serious/critical but stable condition. There has been some small forward progression made in the last day or two and for that we are grateful,” said undersheriff Greg Postma of the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office via social media yesterday. “Due to the type and severity of his injuries, Doctors have indicated that his recovery will be lengthy and painful.”

According to information from the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office, Bitnar was heading westbound on M-28 when an eastbound vehicle crossed into the westbound lane, colliding with Bitnar’s Toyota Prius. 

Police say Bitnar’s vehicle rolled four times before coming to a stop. 

Michigan State Police, EMS, Department of Natural Resources and local fire departments attended the scene. 

Bitnar was discharged from War Memorial Hospital Aug. 14, only to be rushed back to hospital with severe abdominal pain that same day. 

“He and his family would like to thank you all for taking the time to send cards and flowers. To those who have been able to assist with helping the family with their day to day errands and concerns, your acts of generosity and compassion speak volumes about our community’s willingness to help and come together in a time of need,” Postma said via social media. “I know that I am not speaking out of turn when I say that your help, your well wishes and your prayers have made a tragic situation manageable and bearable.” 

Bitnar, who holds a criminal justice degree from the police academy at Lake Superior State University, first joined the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office in 1991.