A drunk driver crashed into a children’s birthday party at a Michigan rowing club, killing two young brothers and injuring 13 others.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodenough said the horror occurred around 3 p.m. when a 66-year-old woman crashed 7 feet into the Swan Creek Boat Club, where children and their parents were enjoying the festivities. He said he was there.
“First responders described the scene as extremely chaotic and emotions high among those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident,” he said.
An alarming video appears The woman’s blue SUV sped through the club’s parking lot, crashing into the back wall of the building and nearly knocking off a streetlight.
A plume of debris can be seen exploding from the corner of the frame, cutting off the catastrophic damage allegedly caused by an inebriated woman.
The 8-year-old girl and her 5-year-old brother died at the scene, police said.
Three children and six adults were taken by two helicopters or an ambulance to area hospitals, some with life-threatening injuries.
Other injured people received first aid at the scene and some were taken to hospital by private vehicle.
Police have not released the identity of the woman, but said she was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol causing death.
She is cooperating with authorities and will likely face additional charges as the investigation progresses, Goodnow said.
The Swan Boat Club has announced it will be closed for the remainder of the weekend in light of the disaster.
“There was a terrible accident on the Swan today, resulting in numerous injuries and extensive damage to the pavilion. Please keep all those in attendance and their families in your prayers,” the boat club said. he said on Facebook.
The accident occurred in the Berlin area, about 30 miles south of Detroit.
with post wire
