Tragedy struck a birthday celebration at a home near Detroit, Michigan, this week when a vehicle crashed into the crowd.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, a motorist suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol barreled into the Swan Creek Boat Club in Berlin Township where a group was gathered to celebrate a child’s birthday on Saturday afternoon.
The vehicle crashed through the north wall of the building and continued traveling roughly 25 feet thereafter.
First responders soon arrived on the scene and found two siblings — an 8-year-old girl and 5-year-old boy — dead. Another three children and six adults were seriously injured and transported to area hospitals by ambulance or helicopter.
Another sibling of the deceased children was reportedly among those seriously injured.
Several other victims were taken to the hospital in other vehicles and paramedics reportedly provided first aid to 15 individuals in all.
Video shows the moment an intoxicated driver in Michigan drove into Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township, killing two children and injuring at least 15 others. pic.twitter.com/8ArT8ZJwXO
— Patriot Pointman 🇺🇸 (@PatriotPointman) April 22, 2024
The driver, identified as a 66-year-old woman, was arrested. Police indicated that she was cooperative upon being taken into custody and, as of initial reports, was being held at Monroe County Jail on suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated resulting in death. Additional charges were expected to be added as police continued their investigation, according to Sheriff Troy Goodnough.
The sheriff subsequently confirmed that the investigation included a search of a tavern located near the scene where the motorist might have been prior to the deadly crash. The establishment had been closed while authorities executed their warrant.
In a statement on the matter, Goodnough explained: “The scene was described as ‘extremely chaotic,’ with high levels of emotion by those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident.”
In the aftermath of the collision, the area was teeming with emergency vehicles from multiple agencies in Berlin Township and several nearby communities, including Frenchtown Township, Monroe Township and Rockwood. Two air ambulances from the University of Michigan were also dispatched to the scene.
https://youtu.be/FaLn2Ykg9uM?si=l8z2KA-etByYQStD
The school district the deceased victims attended provided a statement to parents.
“Our entire school community is reeling from this devastating news, and our hearts ache for the families and loved ones of those affected by this unimaginable tragedy,” wrote Superintendent Andrew Brodie. “Words cannot adequately express the depth of our sorrow, nor can they ease the pain of those who are grieving. Please know that our thoughts are with every one of you during this incredibly difficult time.”
