Livonia, MI - Hit-and-Run on Merriman Rd Kills Child

Livonia, MI (July 1, 2025) – A heartbreaking hit-and-run crash late Sunday night in Livonia claimed the life of a 3-year-old boy and left his mother and twin sister fighting for their lives. The collision occurred just before 11 p.m. on June 29 at the intersection of Merriman Road and Lyndon Street.

According to Livonia police, the 28-year-old mother from Detroit was walking with her twin children across Merriman Road when they were struck by a vehicle. Witnesses at the scene rushed to help, moving the children out of the roadway until emergency crews arrived. The children were transported to a nearby hospital while the mother was taken by the Livonia Fire Department for urgent treatment.

Tragically, the young boy succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. His twin sister and their mother remain in critical condition. Police believe the suspect, a 47-year-old woman from Mount Morris, fled the scene after the crash. Livonia authorities announced her arrest Monday afternoon after eyewitness accounts helped trace the vehicle back to Mount Morris. The investigation is ongoing, with support from the Michigan State Police.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family affected by this devastating tragedy and hope for the full recovery of the injured mother and child.

Car Accidents in Michigan

In Michigan, tragic pedestrian accidents like this remind us of the dangers faced by people on foot. Data from the Michigan State Police shows that in 2023 alone, over 2,000 pedestrians were hit by vehicles statewide, leading to more than 180 fatalities. Many of these incidents occur during night hours or at intersections where visibility and driver attention are crucial.

Understanding the impact of pedestrian crashes is vital for families and communities. Here are some important points about wrongful death claims:

• Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim: Surviving family members — including parents, spouses, and siblings — may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim when negligence leads to the loss of a loved one. This legal step helps families seek financial compensation to cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and the loss of companionship.
• Emotional and Financial Toll: The sudden loss of a family member can place enormous emotional strain on survivors. Financially, families may face unexpected bills and the loss of support the victim would have provided. Wrongful death claims can ease some of this burden during an already painful time.
• Evidence and Investigation: A thorough investigation is crucial to proving fault in a wrongful death case. Eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, and police reports all play a role in building a strong case. Acting quickly helps preserve key evidence before it’s lost.
• Time Limits to File: Michigan law sets strict time limits for filing wrongful death claims. Waiting too long can limit your options. Speaking with a lawyer soon after an accident is the best way to understand your family’s rights and start moving forward.

If you have lost a loved one in a tragic crash like this, or if your family is coping with severe injuries, you should reach out to a trusted wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. The right attorney can help protect your family’s interests, guide you through the legal process, and fight for justice.

At Christopher Trainor & Associates, we stand up for families when they need it most. Our firm has earned a respected reputation as the best auto injury attorney in Michigan because we put our clients first every step of the way. We know that no amount of money can undo a tragedy, but we believe in holding negligent parties accountable and fighting to get you the support you deserve.

Call Christopher Trainor & Associates today at (248) 886-8650 for a free consultation. Let us listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you take the next steps to protect your family’s future.

Note: Our firm utilized outside sources when creating this post. We have not independently verified the facts regarding this accident. If you find information that is incorrect, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates immediately so that we correct the post to reflect the most accurate information available about the accident. This post can be removed upon request.  

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. The photograph used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene. This post is not a solicitation for business.