Putman Family Mourns Three Lost in Tragic Collision Truck Driver Charged

The Putman family is grieving following the loss of three members in a devastating vehicle collision.

A statement issued by the family on September 27 verified the passing of Bill and Barb Putman along with their daughter-in-law, Megan. Two days later, on September 29, a truck operator faced charges related to the incident.

“We are certain Papa, Neenee, and Aunt Megan are not lost indefinitely,” the family expressed on Instagram. “They are vibrant and complete in Heaven, in the presence of Jesus, hearing the words we all aspire to hear: ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.’ ”

The automobile crash also resulted in injuries for several other family members.

The family persists in providing updates on their recovery to supporters through social media platforms.

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“We request you remember Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah, and Gia in your thoughts and prayers as they continue their hospital stay,” the announcement further stated.

Continue reading to discover additional details regarding the incident and its profound effects on the Putman household:

What Transpired in the Fatal Vehicle Collision?

While comprehensive information concerning the fatal crash remains scarce, the initial declaration from the Putman family verified that relatives were “involved in a tragic vehicle collision, resulting in the loss of Papa, Neenee, and Aunt Megan.”

The Sheriff’s Office of Tuscola County, Michigan, confirmed through a statement that a collision involving two vehicles took place on September 26.

The office reported that a commercial semi-truck, traveling southbound and fully loaded, did not halt at a stop sign, subsequently crashing into an eastbound Jeep transporting eight occupants from the nearby town of Cass City.

“Among the eight individuals in the Jeep, three were declared deceased at the site. The remaining occupants of the Jeep were transported to various hospitals by helicopter and MMR, with some in critical condition,” police conveyed via Facebook on September 27. “The driver and passenger of the semi-truck received hospital transport for minor injuries. The operator of the semi-truck was later apprehended, and a report is being submitted to the Prosecutor for the initiation of formal charges.”

Who Perished in the Automobile Accident?

The Putman family verified that Bill “Papa” Putman, his spouse, Barb — frequently known as Neenee — and their daughter-in-law Megan perished in the collision.

“We extend our gratitude for every prayer, message, and gesture of affection,” the family's announcement stated. “Your unwavering support surpasses verbal expression. We ask that you persist in uplifting us, so our spirits remain anchored in the truth that Jesus triumphed over death, granting us everlasting life.”

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Who Is Convalescing From the Car Accident?

A number of other relatives, named by the family as “Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah and Gia,” received hospital treatment following the incident.

On September 28, the family disclosed that Noah remains sedated but noted, “We are immensely thankful to observe his responsive movements.”

Regarding Gia, she had a craniotomy, and the family is “grateful to share that her medical team provided positive news: her brain pressure has substantially decreased.”

A craniotomy is a surgical intervention involving the temporary removal of a part of the skull to reach the brain.

An update posted on Instagram on November 6 indicated that Gia is “recovering favorably.”

“Today, we assessed her capacity to breathe independently from the ventilator for an hour, using only oxygen, and she performed admirably. We intend to continue this exercise multiple times daily,” the social media post conveyed. “Furthermore, she reacted to a clap near her face today with a slight eye flinch, a response she had not shown previously! We also reduced her dosage of another medication today. An internal shunt procedure is planned for her tomorrow afternoon, provided everything proceeds as anticipated.”

The Putmans additionally shared that Gia is “still contending with” a kidney infection and is undergoing therapy for it.

“In summary, she is progressing well and taking small, incremental steps that suggest we are nearing a point where we can engage with her,” the Instagram message concluded. “We would deeply appreciate your continued prayers for her advancement!”

Have Charges Been Filed Regarding the Car Accident?

The Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office declared on September 29 that Pavel B Shchukin, who was reportedly operating the commercial vehicle involved in the collision with the Putman family, had faced eight charges related to the incident. He received three counts of moving violation resulting in death and five counts of moving violation leading to serious bodily impairment. Authorities confirmed that Shchukin is incarcerated at the Tuscola County Jail under a $100,000 cash or surety bond. Information regarding Shchukin’s legal plea has not yet been disclosed.

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How Did Barb Putman Commemorate Husband Bill Putman Before Their Deaths?

Only a few days prior to the deadly vehicle crash, Barb commemorated her husband’s birthday by sharing a profound message on social media.

“You are genuinely a profound gift to me and our family. Every day, you motivate us with your resilience, insight, and resolve. Your love for us is boundless and has remained steadfast, even despite our imperfections,” Barb penned via Instagram on September 23. “As my husband, your love for me mirrors Christ's love for the church, a truth I never overlook. As a father and grandfather, you are an extraordinary present to our family. You serve as our sanctuary, our motivation, and our source of encouragement.”