A tragic accident in Michigan on Tuesday, Oct. 5, claimed the lives of a 19-year-old mother and her infant.
Journee Padgett, 19, was traveling east on S. Custer Road in Raisinville Township at approximately 8:30 a.m. local time, with her 3-month-old daughter Alanee, as identified by family members, in the backseat, according to a statement from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.
The MCSO reports that Padgett crossed the centerline “for an unknown reason,” resulting in a collision with a white 2021 Western Star tractor with tandem trailers.
Following the accident, both cars halted in the westbound lane, as reported by authorities, who noted that airbags had activated in Padgett’s vehicle.
Authorities reported that Padgett had her seat belt on during the accident and that her infant was safely secured in a rear-facing car seat. It is not thought that alcohol or speed played a role.
Padget was declared dead at the scene, and her daughter was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was later confirmed deceased, according to the MCSO statement. The other vehicle’s driver was unharmed and left the scene without any issues.
On Friday, Oct. 18, police informed PEOPLE that the investigation is still active and there are no updates available at this time.
In a tribute for the mother and daughter, family and friends expressed that their loss “creates an emptiness in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to know and cherish them.”
Padgett was deeply committed to her role as a Certified Nursing Assistant, offering care and comfort to many during their final days. Yet, she considered her most significant achievement to be her wonderful daughter, who was the focal point of her life.
Read More: Mom, 19, and Her ‘Beautiful’ 3-Month-Old Daughter Killed in Crash: ‘They Will Be Deeply Missed’