A devastating accident on a frozen pond in Michigan has claimed the lives of a five-year-old girl and her grandfather, sending shockwaves through their local community. The pair, identified as Ronnie Miles, aged five, and her grandfather Eric Miles, 50, both from the Portland area, died on Wednesday after the utility task vehicle (UTV) they were riding in broke through the ice.
Emergency Response and Fatal Outcome
Police rushed to the privately owned pond located in the 9000 Block of Clintonia Road in Westphalia Township after receiving urgent reports that two individuals were trapped. First responders pulled the relatives from the freezing water and transported them to a nearby hospital. Despite these efforts, both Ronnie and Eric later succumbed to their injuries. The Clinton County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that investigations into the tragic deaths remain ongoing.
Family Connections and Community Support
The heartbreaking incident has left the family reeling. Ronnie was the daughter of Grace and Mason Daugherty, who have two other young sons. Eric Miles was Grace's father and also Mason's employer, deepening the familial bonds shattered by this event. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the grieving parents, highlighting the dual loss they face. The fundraiser description poignantly states, 'If you knew Ronnie you knew of her papa Eric. Now as Mason and Grace are left to grieve the lost of their beloved daughter they are also grieving a loss of a father.' The appeal notes that Mason is the sole income earner for the family, who now face memorial costs alongside their profound grief. At the time of reporting, the campaign had raised nearly $5,000.
Safety Warnings and Previous Incidents
This tragedy underscores the significant risks associated with operating vehicles on frozen bodies of water. Safety experts typically recommend that side-by-side vehicles require at least eight to ten inches of solid ice thickness to support their weight safely. The accident in Michigan echoes other recent, harrowing incidents involving UTVs. In December 2024, a two-year-old girl named Ellieana Mishoe from Aiken, South Carolina, tragically died after falling from a crowded side-by-side and being struck by the vehicle. That incident, which occurred on a dimly-lit road, involved three other passengers, including another toddler, and prompted an emotional tribute from Ellieana's father, who described her as 'my world.'
Community Reaction and Condolences
News of the Michigan pond crash has elicited an outpouring of grief and support on social media. Heartbroken users shared their condolences, with one writing, 'Heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the man and child. Thank you to all the First Responders and 911 Dispatchers.' Another added, 'Prayers for all involved. God, watch over them all as they are dealing with this tragedy.' A further comment expressed, 'So heartbreaking! Sending our hugs, thoughts & prayers for the family, friends, loved ones, the Portland & PW Communities & the first responders.' The Daily Mail has reached out to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office for additional comment on the ongoing investigation.
