LEROY TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A Michigan family is mourning the devastating loss of two young siblings after a bicycle crash claimed the life of 12-year-old Calvin Shepard and, five days later, his 13-year-old sister, Karalee.
The brother and sister were riding their bicycles in Leroy Township on Sept. 5, when they were struck by a Ford Explorer around 11:30 a.m. local time.
According to reports, the children were traveling along Grand River Avenue near North Meech Road when the SUV, which was heading west, hit them.
Both children were wearing helmets at the time of the crash.
The collision immediately turned into a heartbreaking emergency. Calvin died at the scene, while Karalee suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Karalee Dies Five Days After Her Brother
For five days, Karalee remained hospitalized as her family hoped she would recover from the injuries she suffered in the crash.
That hope was shattered on Thursday, Sept. 10.
Karalee’s mother, Raquel Roark Shepard, announced her daughter’s death in a Facebook post, sharing the family’s grief and describing the two children as precious members of their family.
“Our hearts are broken beyond what we can put into words. We find comfort in knowing that Karalee and Calvin are together again and in the loving arms of our Savior,” Shepard wrote.
She also thanked people who had supported the family through prayers, messages and other acts of kindness.
“Please continue to pray for our family as we begin to grieve the loss of two of our precious children,” she wrote.
The family now faces the unimaginable task of mourning both children at once.
Family Plans One Funeral for Both Siblings
According to their mother, one funeral will be held for Karalee and Calvin on Saturday, Sept. 12.
The decision reflects the family’s desire not to have to say goodbye to the siblings separately.
“We simply cannot bear the thought of saying goodbye to our children twice,” Shepard wrote.
The family had already been grieving Calvin following the crash. In a post shared Tuesday, Sept. 8, his mother remembered him as “an amazing 12-year-old boy who approached life head-on.”
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She described a young boy who loved sports and games, including soccer, basketball, swimming, volleyball and video games.
But beyond his interests, she said, Calvin was remembered especially for how he treated other people.
Family Remembers Calvin as a Caring Friend
Calvin’s mother said her son was the kind of child who noticed when others were being excluded or mistreated.
“But one of the most important things about Calvin was the way he treated people. He was a really good friend. He noticed kids who were being teased or left out, and he would stand up for them. He wanted people to feel included, valued, and loved,” she wrote.
She also remembered his generosity, affection and willingness to express his love for those around him.
“He gave the best hugs, was generous with compliments, and wasn’t afraid to tell people how much he loved them,” she continued.
Those memories now form part of the family’s effort to honor the siblings as they prepare to say goodbye.
Crash Investigation Remains Ongoing
The driver involved in the crash was identified by police as a 64-year-old woman who remained at the scene following the collision.
Michigan State Police said drugs and alcohol were not factors in the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate what happened. As of the latest information available, no arrests or charges have been announced.
Meanwhile, the Shepard family has received an outpouring of support from the community. A friend of the family established a GoFundMe campaign to help them during this devastating period.
As of publication, the fundraiser had already surpassed its original goal and raised more than $136,000.
What do you think about the community support surrounding the Shepard family? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.