Outpouring for family of 2 children killed when suspected drunken driver plows into building

A community mourned Sunday and police probed deeper into the crash that killed two siblings, a 5-year-old and an 8-year-old, and injured at least 13 others at a birthday party Saturday afternoon at a Monroe County boat club.

Flat Rock Community Schools said the 8-year-old girl and her 5-year-old brother who were killed when the car crashed into the party Saturday were students in the Flat Rock school district, the district's superintendent said Sunday. A third sibling was severely injured in the crash, he said, and a GoFundMe page said the mother of the three also was severely injured.

The tragedy prompted an outpouring of community support. The GoFundMe page posted online, which The Detroit News verified with the site as being authentic, has raised more than $173,000 for the funeral for the two children. The creator of the fund drive identified herself as the sister to the mother of the siblings.

At about 3 p.m. Saturday, a 66-year-old female driver crashed into a building where the children's birthday party was taking place at the Swan Creek Boat Club on Brancheau Road in Berlin Township and careened 25 feet into the north side of the building, according to Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough.

The woman, whom authorities have not identified, was taken into custody on suspicion of operating while intoxicated causing death. She was then held at the Monroe County Jail.

The crash sent a community reeling and left even police stunned and emotional, the sheriff delivering information at a news conference Saturday at times with a quivering voice. By Sunday, the tragedy had made international news.

The boat club was closed Sunday, according to its website and Facebook page. "Our deepest sympathy goes out to this family and everyone else that was involved," said the boat club's post. "That family has asked us to post their go fund me to help with the funeral arrangements for the two children."

A total of 15 people were injured, including children and adults, Goodnough said, who held an emotional press conference Saturday night. Emergency responders transferred three children and six adults to local hospitals in serious conditions. Several others were taken to hospitals in private vehicles, Goodnough said.

The Sheriff's Office didn't provide any updates Sunday.

Flat Rock schools will have counselors and social workers available for students and their families Monday.  

"It is with a heavy heart that I reach out to you today following the tragic events that unfolded yesterday," said Andrew Brodie, superintendent of Flat Rock Community Schools, in a statement released Sunday afternoon. "A senseless accident occurred where a drunk driver crashed into Swan Creek Boat Club, resulting in the loss of two siblings who were students in our school (Early Childhood Center, Bobcean Elementary) and severe injuries of a third sibling (Simpson Middle School)."

"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."

State Rep. Jamie Thompson, a Republican whose 28th District covers parts of Wayne and Monroe counties, commended "the swift and exceptional response of our first responders" in a statement Sunday.

"As we navigate through this difficult time, we pledge to support and comfort the families affected by this tragedy. We will remain united as a community, offering solace and assistance wherever it is needed," Thompson said.

laguilar@detroitnews.com