A devastating traffic accident claimed the lives of a local firefighter's wife and two children near Grand Ledge earlier this week, officials said. According to the WZZM13, the victims were identified as Emily, Amalia, and Shiloh Root. The collision occurred when their van failed to observe a stop sign and was struck by a semi.
Authorities dispatched to the scene near the intersection of Mt. Hope Highway and Cochran Road found that the van had been traveling westbound when it entered the path of the semi. The Eaton County Sheriff's Office noted a third child survived the crash with non-life-threatening injuries and was receiving treatment in the hospital. As reported by Lansing State Journal, the semi-driver was also hospitalized as a precaution.
The Lake Odessa Fire Department shared a statement on their Facebook page mourning the tragic loss and detailing avenues for community support. "It is with broken hearts we extend our deepest heartfelt condolences, to our Brother in Service, on the loss of his beloved Wife and 2 young children," the statement read. They further announced that a meal chain had been established and provided information about a dedicated Venmo account for donations to support the family with unforeseen expenses.
In addition to online donations, the fire department has a physical location for people who want to help in traditional ways. They’re accepting local food gift cards and meals, which can be dropped off at the Fire Station. There’s also a bank account set up at Union Bank under the Lake Odessa Fire Department.
