A birthday celebration turned tragic when a vehicle crashed into a building in Berlin Township Michigan on Saturday afternoon killing two young siblings and injuring several others. The incident occurred at the Swan Creek Boat Club where a group had gathered to celebrate a child’s birthday.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office the driver a 66-year-old woman suspected of operating under the influence of alcohol plowed through the north wall of the building traveling approximately 25 feet inside. First responders found an 8-year-old girl and her 5-year-old brother dead at the scene while three other children and six adults suffered serious injuries.
The injured victims were transported to nearby hospitals by ambulance and helicopter with paramedics providing first aid to a total of 15 individuals. Another sibling of the deceased children was among those seriously injured.
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
Sheriff Troy Goodnough described the scene as “extremely chaotic” with high levels of emotion from those directly involved and witnesses. The area was flooded with emergency vehicles from multiple agencies in Berlin Township and surrounding communities including Frenchtown Township Monroe Township and Rockwood. Two air ambulances from the University of Michigan also responded to the scene.
The driver was arrested and held at Monroe County Jail on suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated resulting in death. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues which includes a search of a nearby tavern where the motorist may have been prior to the crash.
The school district attended by the deceased victims released a statement expressing their grief and support for the affected families. “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.
