A suspected drunk driver crashed into a building in Berlin Township, Michigan, Saturday afternoon killing two young siblings and injuring several others who were attending a birthday celebration. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the 66-year-old female driver plowed through the north wall of the Swan Creek Boat Club traveling about 25 feet inside.
First responders arrived at the chaotic scene to find an 8-year-old girl and her 5-year-old brother dead. Three other children and six adults suffered serious injuries and were transported to area hospitals by ambulance and helicopter. Another sibling of the deceased was among those seriously injured.
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Paramedics provided first aid to a total of 15 individuals while several others were taken to the hospital in private vehicles. The area was teeming with emergency vehicles from multiple agencies in Berlin Township and nearby 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. Sheriff Troy Goodnough confirmed that the investigation includes a search of a tavern near the scene where the motorist might have been prior to the deadly crash.
“The scene was described as ‘extremely chaotic,’ with high levels of emotion by those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident,” Goodnough explained in a statement.
The school district attended by the deceased victims provided a statement to parents expressing their sorrow and support. “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.
