A devastating accident in Weldon Township, Benzie County, Michigan, has claimed the life of a 3-year-old girl, while leaving two other young children injured. The crash occurred on the evening of August 8, prompting an urgent response from local authorities.

At approximately 9 p.m., emergency services were dispatched to the intersection of Cadillac Highway (M-115) and Weldon Road following reports of a two-car collision. Investigators identified the driver at fault as 25-year-old Shaynel Guthrie of Cadillac, who failed to stop at the intersection. Her vehicle collided with one driven by an 18-year-old woman from Kaleva, who escaped without serious injury.

Tragically, Guthrie’s three child passengers were ejected from the vehicle upon impact. Among them, the 3-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. A 4-year-old was treated and released from Munson Medical Center, while a 5-year-old with critical injuries was airlifted to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Guthrie and an adult passenger sustained no reported injuries.

Alcohol is being cited as a contributing factor, and Guthrie now faces multiple charges, including operating while intoxicated causing death and serious injury. Her bond has been set at $500,000.

Local residents and authorities have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss. The community remains on edge as the investigation continues, with legal proceedings expected to follow. State troopers, Benzie County Sheriff’s deputies, EMS personnel, and the Thompsonville Fire Department collaborated on the emergency response.

This deeply upsetting incident underscores the devastating consequences of impaired driving—especially involving children—as well as the importance of road safety and responsible behavior behind the wheel.