(WWJ) Donations are pouring in to help a Livonia family left grieving and heartbroken over the death of their 3-year-old son during Wednesday's severe weather.
A tornado hit the neighborhood as 3-year-old Cooper Drake was sleeping with his mother, Corrine, in a back bedroom, late in the afternoon of June 5. A large tree crashed through the home, killing the toddler and critically injuring his mom.
Cooper's infant sister, less than 2 weeks old, was also in the home but was not injured, authorities said.
By Friday morning, a pair of online fundraisers had already raised more than $300,000 for the family, whose house was destroyed.
A message posted to Gofundme states: "We are reaching out to you today on behalf of the Drake/Sergison family who have recently suffered a devastating loss from the storm on Wednesday. In the accident, Corinne and their son Cooper were trapped under a tree falling on their bedroom. Cooper, three years old, tragically succumbed to his injuries and his mother Corinne has sustained substantial injuries. It will be a long and difficult road ahead for this family, both physically and emotionally."
Those who wish to help can donate online HERE or HERE.
The Livonia First Responders Foundation is also accepting donations on the family’s behalf at this link.
There was no emergency siren to warn the family, as authorities say the powerful EF-1 tornado was unexpected, forming quickly in the area of 6 Mile and Merriman roads. The twister packing winds of more than 90 mph initially touched down near Rotary Park, according to the National Weather Service, where it uprooted trees and took down a pavilion.
In Farmington Hills, strong winds caused the overhang to come crashing down at Citgo gas station, and DTE Energy said just under 30,000 homes and businesses in Metro Detroit lost power.