Tragedy has struck the family at the center of the TLC reality show Meet the Putmans. Three members of the Putman family were killed when a semi-truck reportedly ran a stop sign and collided with their Jeep.
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The incident occurred on Friday, September 26, in Cass City, Michigan, a rural community located outside of Detroit. Bill "Papa" Putman, his wife Barb "Neenee" Putman, and their daughter-in-law Megan Putman were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the New York Post.
What Is 'Meet the Putmans'?
The reality show Meet the Putmans aired on TLC in 2017. It followed the exploits of the titular family. Unlike another similar show, there were 25 members of the Putman family across four generations, all living in the same 6,000-square-foot home.
The show and its YouTube spin-off, Growing Up Putman, resonated with viewers not just because of the family's unconventional lifestyle, but also because of their loyalty to each other despite the privacy issues, managing household responsibilities, and the general chaos that comes from living in a shared space.
Five Family Members Were Injured
Blake Putman, Megan's husband, and their three children, along with their niece, were also in the vehicle. They were rushed to hospital facilities nearby, with some in critical condition. Several members were airlifted due to the severity of their injuries.
The remaining members of the Putman confirmed the news on social media. In a lengthy statement written by Isabelle, the family said that Bill, Barb, and Megan "have gone home to be with the Lord."
"Please keep Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah, and Gia in your prayers as they remain in the hospital," the letter says. "We are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them."
"Even in this time of heartbreak, we rest in knowing that God is in control," the statement reads.
There Have Been Some Updates
In a statement shared since the accident, Noah remains sedated but is responding with movement. Gia had a craniotomy, and the pressure in her brain has gone down significantly.
"This is a powerful reminder that God's hand is on her, guiding her healing every step of the way.
The family continues to ask for prayers and privacy during this time.
Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images
