DETROIT — A local organization has come forward to assist the surviving relatives of two children who tragically passed away in a van during severe cold conditions in a casino parking garage, according to an official announcement.
A memorial service was conducted on Thursday for Darnell Currie Jr., aged 9, and his 2-year-old sister A’millah Currie, who were among five children and two adults occupying a van that lost heating capabilities as temperatures plummeted below freezing on February 10.
Jessica Wiggins, who attended the viewing on Wednesday, expressed her grief, stating, “It makes you want to break down because that could have been your child. That could have been anybody else’s child.”
Authorities reported that the family had been living in their vehicle for several months. Mayor Mike Duggan revealed that the children’s mother had contacted a housing assistance hotline back in November, but unfortunately, it seems she did not receive the necessary support. The mayor has called for a review of the city’s interactions with the family to understand what transpired.
Deputy Mayor Melia Howard shared that a local organization would be covering the rent for a full year to secure housing for the affected family.
Howard conveyed her commitment to supporting the family, expressing, “It’s just important for me to let them know that we’re not just here for today. We’re going to be with them as long as they need us,” while becoming emotional during her address at the funeral home.
