Monroe County, Michigan – A tragic incident took place at a Michigan boat club where an 8-year-old girl and her 5-year-old brother lost their lives when a suspected drunk driver crashed into a child’s birthday party, injuring 15 others. The devastating crash occurred at the Swan Boat Club around 3 p.m. on Saturday when a 66-year-old woman driving an SUV plowed into the side of the building and continued about 25 feet inside before coming to a stop.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough stated during a news conference that the driver, who has not been publicly identified, was arrested on charges of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and causing death. The driver is expected to face additional charges as the investigation continues. Goodnough mentioned that the driver was cooperative with authorities.
Describing the scene as “extremely chaotic,” Goodnough expressed the high level of emotions experienced by the victims and witnesses of the tragic incident. The two young siblings were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the community in shock and mourning. Six adults and three children were rushed to the hospital with serious injuries following the crash in Berlin Township, located approximately 30 miles south of Detroit.
A video captured by a doorbell camera showed the black SUV speeding through the boat club’s parking lot before crashing, sending smoke and dust into the air. Authorities are looking into a local tavern several miles away where the suspect was believed to have been served alcohol prior to the fatal crash. The business was shut down, and a search warrant was executed in relation to the investigation.
In response to the tragedy, the Swan Boat Club announced via Facebook that they would be closed on Sunday and requested prayers and support from the community for the families of the victims. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives. As the community mourns the loss of the young siblings, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash to bring justice to those affected.