Zayn and Lana: Siblings aged 5 and 8 identified as children killed after drunk driver crashed into birthday party in Michigan
NEWPORT, MICHIGAN: Heartbroken family members claimed that eight-year-old Lana and five-year-old Zayn were the young siblings killed when an alleged drunk driver crashed into a children's birthday party in Michigan over the weekend.
A photo of the adorable brother and sister with their mother and older sibling—who is still in critical condition—was made public a day after the Swan Creek Boat Club collision that claimed their lives and injured numerous others.
Family identifies two children they lost 'to a drunk driver'
“My sister and her family have lost their two babies to a drunk driver April 20th in Monroe, MI. Mom (Mariah) and oldest brother (Jayden ) are still in critical condition at this time,” Diane Harrington wrote on a GoFundMe page where the siblings were identified and pictured.
“Monies raised will help give Lana age 8 and Zayn age 5 a proper funeral and burial service.” The family stated that any leftover funds would be used for housing and medical costs.
More than $100,000 has been raised by the GoFundMe campaign since it launched earlier this Sunday, April 21.
Around 3 pm on Saturday, April 20, the birthday celebration turned into a nightmare when a 66-year-old woman, who has not been named, drove her SUV through the boat club, which was filled with children and their parents, according to authorities.
According to Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough, emergency personnel characterized the situation as "very chaotic."
Fifteen people were injured in total
Helicopters and ambulances whisked six adults and three children to local hospitals. Fifteen people were injured in total. According to WTVG, the driver was taken into custody and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated resulting in death.
Additional charges may be brought against him. Jayden attends Simpson Middle School at Flat Rock Community Schools, while Lana and Zayn attended Bobcean Elementary School.
In a statement to the school community, school superintendent Andrew Brodie referred to the incident as "senseless."
“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,” Brodie stated.
Brodie went on to say, “Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with every one of you during this incredibly difficult time.”
Internet pray for 'families affected by this senseless tragedy'
After the Swan Creek Boat Club posted the tragic news on their official Facebook page, the internet users offered their prayers and condolences to the affected families.
One social media user wrote in the comments section, "Prayers to all of the families affected by this senseless tragedy!!"
Another added, "Prayers go out to all involved and condolences go to the families of the children who had died."
One person wrote, "The kids are going to be devastated by what they have seen hopefully counseling and comfort will help them that’s a terrible thing to happen and an my prayers are with everyone at this difficult time."
"Please accept our most heartfelt condolences. We pray for the families involved. Belvidere Boat Club Lake Saint Clair," another person wrote.
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.
