Pontiac Salt-Truck Driver Fatally Shot While Plowing Roads; Police Arrest Suspect Hours After Deadly Incident

PONTIAC, MI — Authorities in Pontiac are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a 53-year-old salt-truck driver who was gunned down while plowing roads on Saturday night. Police identified the victim as Antonio Jason Craig, who was found unresponsive inside his truck, which was equipped with a salt spreader, along one of the city’s main routes.

Investigators say a suspect was taken into custody just hours after the shooting, though no motive has been released.

Driver Found Shot in His Vehicle While Working

According to police, officers responded to reports of an unresponsive man inside a work vehicle late Saturday evening. Upon arrival, they found Craig fatally wounded from an apparent gunshot inside his salt truck. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.

Craig was reportedly on his assigned winter plow route, helping to treat the roads during freezing conditions when the shooting occurred. Officials have not said whether Craig was specifically targeted or if the shooting stemmed from a confrontation.

“This was a hardworking man simply doing his job — keeping our roads safe for others,” a Pontiac city worker said. “It’s devastating for everyone who knew him.”

Suspect Arrested Hours Later

Law enforcement officials confirmed that a suspect was apprehended within hours of the deadly incident. The individual’s name has not yet been released pending formal charges, but police say the arrest came after swift coordination between patrol units and detectives.

Authorities are now working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting and are reviewing potential surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes.

The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from Pontiac police and other agencies.

Community Shock and Condolences

The incident has shaken the Pontiac community, where Craig was known for his reliability and long service in winter maintenance operations. Co-workers and city officials described him as a dedicated worker who often volunteered for long shifts during snowstorms.

“He was one of those guys you could count on — always out there in the cold, making sure the roads were clear,” one colleague shared. “To lose him like this, in the middle of doing what he loved, is heartbreaking.”

Local residents have begun placing flowers and messages near the area where Craig’s truck was found, expressing grief and frustration over the senseless violence.

Investigation Continues

Police have not released details about the possible motive, but investigators are exploring all leads, including whether the shooting may have been road-related or random. Detectives are also awaiting autopsy results from the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s Office to confirm the cause of death.

Officials are urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity near Craig’s plow route on Saturday night to contact the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office tip line or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak Up.

As the investigation continues, local leaders are calling for calm and solidarity within the community.

“Our thoughts are with Mr. Craig’s family and loved ones,” a city spokesperson said. “No one should lose their life while simply doing their job to serve the public.”

For continued coverage and law enforcement updates on this developing story, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.