A Michigan couple’s holiday season turned tragic as both husband and wife died in separate accidents just days apart.
At a Glance
- Scott and Mary Lou Levitan, both 66, from Livonia, Michigan, died in separate accidents between Christmas and New Year’s Day
- Scott fell through ice while fishing with his grandson on December 26
- Mary Lou died in a car crash about 24 hours after Scott’s accident
- The couple’s deaths have been described as an “unspeakable tragedy” by local authorities
Tragic Ice Fishing Accident
On December 26, Scott Levitan and his 15-year-old grandson set out for what should have been a pleasant day of ice fishing on a small lake north of Detroit. The outing took a disastrous turn when the ice beneath them gave way as they were drilling a hole. Both Scott and his grandson plunged into the frigid waters.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the quick-thinking grandson managed to call 911 before attempting to rescue his grandfather. Unfortunately, the ice broke again, sending the boy into the water as well. A nearby resident, using a kayak, heroically kept Scott’s head above water until help arrived.
Husband, wife die in separate accidents after Christmas: 'Unspeakable' https://t.co/OsA7ZeAolf
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Rescue Efforts and Aftermath
The grandson was rescued and treated at a local hospital. Scott, however, was in critical condition and placed on life support. Despite medical efforts, he was removed from life support on December 31, marking a somber end to the year for the Levitan family.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of ice fishing, particularly during periods of fluctuating temperatures. It underscores the importance of safety precautions and awareness of ice conditions before venturing onto frozen bodies of water.
Second Tragedy Strikes
In a cruel twist of fate, Mary Lou Levitan, Scott’s wife, met with her own tragic accident approximately 24 hours after her husband’s mishap. She was believed to be on her way to retrieve Scott’s vehicle when disaster struck.
According to reports, a 19-year-old driver crossed into the northbound lane, colliding with Mary Lou’s car. The impact was fatal, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
Community Response
The double tragedy has left the Livonia community reeling. The Levitans, both 66, were well-known residents of this Detroit suburb. Their sudden and untimely deaths have sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support for their family.
“This is an unspeakable tragedy that has befallen this family in a very short time.”
Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard expressed his condolences, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of such closely timed, separate tragedies befalling a single family. The community has rallied around the Levitan family, offering support during this unimaginably difficult time.
As the investigation into Mary Lou’s accident continues and the family grapples with their loss, this heartbreaking series of events serves as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing our loved ones.
