BERLIN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Two young kids, siblings, were killed after a suspected drunk driver drove her vehicle through a building during a birthday party in Monroe County on Saturday.
The crash happened at around 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Swan Boat Club in Berlin Township. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office said the birthday party was for a young child.
A total of 15 people were treated, including children and adults. Nine of them -- three children and six adults -- were transported to local hospitals with serious life-threatening injuries, according to police. Several others were transported privately for medical treatment.
Police said two children were pronounced dead at the scene. They said they were an 8-year-old girl and a 5-year-old boy who were siblings. A third sibling was also seriously injured.
The victims have not been identified, but the Flat Rock Community Schools website posted a letter to families:
“It is with a heavy heart that I reach out to you today following the tragic events that unfolded yesterday. A senseless accident occurred where a drunk driver crashed into Swan Creek Boat Club, resulting in the loss of two siblings who were students in our school (Early Childhood Center, Bobcean Elementary) and severe injuries of a third sibling (Simpson Middle School),” Superintendent Andrew Brodie wrote.
“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. 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 and prayers are with every one of you during this incredibly difficult time.”
The district said counselors and social workers will be on hand at schools when students return on Monday.
A GoFundMe has been setup by the family here.
Surveillance video from a nearby home shows the vehicle speeding by. The vehicle crashed into the north wall of the building, went inside, and stopped around 25 feet inside.
The driver, a 66-year-old woman who has not been publicly identified, was arrested for suspected drunk driving and is expected to face criminal charges. Officials said she was cooperating with the investigation.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough said they received information to indicate that she had been at a nearby tavern before the crash. Officials planned to execute a search warrant there as part of the investigation.