A children's birthday party became the scene of a tragedy after an alleged drunk driver crashed through the venue, killing two children and injuring 13 others.
The incident occurred around 3:00PM on Saturday (April 20), when a 66-year-old woman, suspected to be under the influence, crashed her vehicle 25 feet into the Swan Creek Boat Club in Michigan, as reported by the New York Post.
Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough described the scene as "extremely chaotic" with emotions running high among those directly impacted and witnesses to the horrific event.
Dramatic footage captured the woman’s blue SUV racing through the club’s parking lot, ultimately colliding with the building's back wall, narrowly avoiding a lamp post.
Tragically, an eight-year-old girl and her five-year-old brother lost their lives at the scene, while three children and six adults were rushed to nearby hospitals with some sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Immediate first aid was administered to others at the site, with additional individuals transported to medical facilities by private vehicles.
While the authorities have not disclosed the identity of the woman, she has been apprehended on suspicion of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, leading to fatalities.
Sheriff Goodnough indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses, with the individual in custody cooperating with law enforcement.
"The scene was just described by the first responders as is extremely chaotic, with high level of emotions of those directly involved and those who witnessed this horrific incident," the Sheriff said, per FOX News.
Goodnough added: "Preliminary investigation reveals that a vehicle drove through a building where a children's birthday celebration was taking place, seriously injuring a number of people, both children and adults. The victims have been transported to several area hospitals."
Goodnough also mentioned that there were indications suggesting the female driver had visited a nearby tavern prior to the collision.
He stated that deputies had taken action to shut down the establishment and intended to conduct a search warrant as part of their investigative procedures.
In response to the catastrophe, the Swan Boat Club announced the closure of its premises for the remainder of the weekend.
"There was a terrible accident at Swan today with many injuries, and much damage to the pavilion," the club wrote on Facebook. "Please keep all the people and families in attendance in your prayers."
Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy.
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