Three family members of TLC’s “Meet the Putmans” reality show were killed and several others were injured in a Michigan car crash on Friday.
Bill “Papa” Putman, the patriarch of the family, his wife, Barb “Neenee” Putman, and their daughter-in-law Megan Putman were driving through a rural area of Cass City in Detroit when a semi-truck ran a stop sign and hit their jeep, the New York Post reported on Saturday.
They were pronounced dead at the scene while Meghan’s husband, Blake Putman, and their children — Lulu, Alena and Noah — and niece Gia “were transported to respective hospitals by helicopter and MMR, some in critical condition,” police revealed.
The family confirmed the news via Instagram Saturday, writing, “They 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, (sic) we are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them,” they continued.
“We are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them.”
On Sunday, the family gave an update on Noah and Gia, writing, “Noah is still sedated, but we are so grateful to see that he is responding to us with movement.
“Gia underwent a craniotomy last night,” they continued, referring to “a type of brain surgery where a surgeon removes part of your skull to access your brain,” per the Cleveland Clinic.
“We are thankful to report that her care team shared some encouraging news,” the statement read.
“Her brain pressure has gone down significantly. This is a powerful reminder that God’s hand is on her, guiding her healing every step of the way,” they added.
The Putman family rose to fame in 2017 when TLC released one season of “Meet the Putnams,” showcasing three generations, 25 people, living in the same home.
The household consisted of the family hierarchy, Bill and Barb, their four adult children and their spouses and children.
The family’s current Instagram bio shares that the household consisted of 10 adults and 20 kids residing under one roof before the recent deaths.
In 2021, the Putmans rebranded their series via YouTube as “Growing Up Putman” and have since reached more than 8,000 followers.
According to the platform’s bio, “Bill and Barb Putman believe a strong family bond can occur only if everyone stays together.”