The young siblings killed when a suspected drunk driver sideswiped a child’s birthday party in Michigan over the weekend were identified Sunday as Lana, 8, and Zayn, 5, according to devastated relatives .
A photo of the adorable siblings with their mother and older brother – who remain in a critical condition – was released a day after the fatal crash which also injured more than a dozen other people at the Swan Creek Boat Club.
“My sister and her family lost both of their babies to a drunk driver on April 20 in Monroe, Michigan. Mom (Mariah) and older brother (Jayden) are still in critical condition at this time,” Diane Harrington wrote on a GoFundMe page where the siblings were identified and photographed.
“The money raised will help provide 8-year-old Lana and 5-year-old Zayn with a proper funeral and burial service.”
The remaining money would go toward housing and medical expenses, the family said.
The GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $100,000 since its launch on Sunday.
The birthday celebration turned into a nightmare around 3 p.m. Saturday when a 66-year-old woman – who has not been identified – drove her SUV through the yacht club where the children and their parents were gathered, police said. authorities said.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough said first responders described the scene as “extremely chaotic.”
Three children and six adults were rushed to area hospitals by helicopter or ambulance. A total of 15 people were injured.
The driver was taken into custody and charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated causing death and could face other charges, WTVG reported.
Lana and Zayn attended Bobcean Elementary School and Jayden goes to Simpson Middle School at Flat Rock Community Schools.
School principal Andrew Brodie described the incident as “senseless” in a message to the school community.
“Our entire school community is in shock at this devastating news, and our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those affected by this unimaginable tragedy. Words cannot adequately express the depth of our grief, nor can they ease the pain of those who are grieving,” Brodie said.
“Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this incredibly difficult time. »
New York Post
