Detroit Group Provides Housing For Family Of Tragic Incident

Tateona Williams, the mother of A'millah Currie, 2, and Darnell Currie, Jr., gets emotional with other siblings before the start of the funeral services at Triumph Church on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, i

A group has come forward to provide a home for the surviving family members of two Detroit children who tragically died in a cold van in a casino parking garage. The funeral for Darnell Currie Jr., 9, and A’millah Currie, 2, was held on Thursday, honoring their young lives cut short in a heartbreaking incident.

The children were part of a group of five children and two adults who were in a van that stopped producing heat as temperatures plummeted far below freezing on February 10. The tragic event has left the community in mourning and reflecting on the vulnerability of those in need.

Many individuals, like Jessica Wiggins, who visited the funeral home, expressed deep sorrow and empathy for the family's loss. Wiggins shared her emotional response, stating, 'It makes you want to break down because that could have been your child. That could have been anybody else’s child.'

Group offers to cover family's rent for a year.

Two Detroit children died in a cold van in a casino parking garage.

Mayor calls for review of city's interactions with the family.

Reports indicate that the family had been living in the vehicle for several months. Mayor Mike Duggan revealed that the children's mother had reached out to a housing hotline in November, seeking assistance, but it appears that the family was not provided with the support they needed at that time. The mayor has called for a thorough review of the city's interactions with the family to understand the circumstances that led to this tragedy.

Deputy Mayor Melia Howard announced that a local group has generously offered to cover the family's rent for a year to ensure they have a stable and secure place to live. Howard emphasized the group's commitment to supporting the family in the long term, stating, '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.'

The outpouring of support and compassion from the community serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to help those in need during times of crisis. The tragic loss of Darnell and A’millah Currie has sparked a wave of solidarity and generosity, as efforts are made to provide comfort and assistance to their grieving family.