Whittemore Prescott accident: Family launches fundraiser as two students killed in Ogemaw County crash

Two Whittemore Prescott Area School students were killed while one was injured in a crash in Ogemaw County on the morning of Friday, January 12, 2024. The crash took place when three students were on their way to school in a two-door Chevrolet Cobalt on Mills Road near Black Road in Richland Township. That was when the car reportedly lost control and hit a pickup - a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - driving in the opposite lane.

Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of an accident causing the deaths of two teenagers. Reader discretion is advised.

The victims of the crash have been identified as 17-year-old Melody Broderick and 16-year-old Sariah Obst. Melody was sitting in the back seat of the car and was killed at the scene. Meanwhile, Sariah was in the front passenger seat and was taken to a local medical center for treatment where she succumbed to her injuries.

The driver of the Cobalt was also a student of Whittemore Prescott and was taken to a medical center for her treatment where she is still hospitalized. Meanwhile, the driver of the pick-up was identified as a 30-year-old Prescott man who hadn't sustained any injuries.

A GoFundMe campaign set up by family members identified them as Melody Broderick and Sariah Obst. While the fundraiser for Melody has raised over $5000, that for Sariah has raised over $9000.

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Family identify Whittemore Prescott students killed in morning crash

Authorities hadn't officially identified the two deceased Whittemore Prescott students. However, the GoFundMe campaign set up by their family members identified them as Melody Broderick and Sariah Obst.

Melody’s GoFundMe initiative was organized by her aunt Vanessa. It urged people to donate to alleviate her parent’s financial burdens while they grieve the loss of their daughter. The page had raised over $5000 at the time of writing this article.

“We’re asking that you help ease the financial difficulties that come with having to face a parent's worst nightmare and still continue on for the rest of their kids." The fundraiser stated.

Sariah Obst’s aunt, who set up the crowdfunding page, echoed the statement, noting her niece died before her 17th birthday. The fundraising page had raised over $9,000 at the time of writing this article.

“If you could find it in your heart to help us cover this expense, any amount would help- this came so unexpectedly. If you cannot help financially, please help by sharing this post with all! Thank you so much for taking the time to read our story.” Sariah's fundraiser read.

In a post to the school community, Whittemore Prescott Area Schools Superintendent Mike Ehinger confirmed the victims were students at the school. Ehinger said that the school district was expressing their deepest condolences to the families of the two girls. He added that while their "hearts are heavy with grief," they are extending their thoughts and prayers to them in "this incredibly difficult time."

Ehringer also revealed the school district will be providing grief counseling and support services for students and staff who are grappling with the tragedy.

“Together, we can weather this storm and emerge even stronger as a community. We appreciate your understanding and support during these trying times.” He said, concluding his statement.

The grief counseling services will reportedly be made available from Friday for the students and teachers of Whittemore Prescott.