A joyous birthday celebration turned into a nightmare as two children lost their lives and several others were injured when a drunk driver crashed into a child’s birthday party in Monroe County on Saturday afternoon.
Details of the Incident
The tragic incident unfolded around 3 pm on Saturday (4/20) when a 66-year-old woman drove her vehicle into the Swan Boat Club near Newport in Monroe County. Surveillance footage captured the horrifying moment as the car careened through the boat club’s parking lot and crashed into the outer wall of the building. The vehicle only came to a halt after traveling approximately 25 feet into the structure.
The identity of the 66-year-old driver has not yet been disclosed, but she is expected to face arraignment as early as today.
Loss of Innocent Lives
The devastating crash claimed the lives of two young siblings, 8-year-old Layna and 5-year-old Zayne. Additionally, their mother Mariah and older brother Jayden suffered critical injuries in the accident, as reported by Detroit’s WJBK-TV.
Eyewitness Account
Dan Bezley, who was present at the boat club during the collision, expressed his shock and sorrow to the TV station. “This is just complete innocence. They’re just sitting there cutting the birthday cake and singing Happy Birthday and their lives are taken from them instantly,” Beazley lamented.
Community Support
In the wake of the tragedy, the children’s aunt has launched a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses and support the family’s medical needs. Contributions have poured in from the community, with the fund surpassing $166,000 at the time of this report.