A Suburban Detroit Couple’s New Year’s Tragedy: A String of Accidents Claims Lives Days Apart
Two families from Livonia, Michigan, are reeling from the dual deaths of Scott and Mary Lou Levitan, following tragic accidents just days apart between Christmas and New Year’s Day. The couple, both aged 66, faced largely separated mishaps, which culminated their festive season with devastating sorrow.
Scott Levitan met with misfortune first; he fell through the ice on Thursday, December 28, 2025, during a fishing trip on a small lake situated north of Detroit. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office reported he was accompanied by his 15-year-old grandson, who became part of the harrowing scene when he attempted to rescue his grandfather from the icy waters. According to the sheriff’s office, the mishap occurred as Scott and his grandson were drilling holes for fishing when the ice suddenly cracked beneath them.
After Scott fell through the ice, the teenager quickly called 911. The rescue involved the efforts of nearby residents, one of whom pulled the grandson to safety before helping to rescue the grandfather. Despite immediate care, Scott was later placed on life-support at the hospital. Unfortunately, his condition worsened, leading to his removal from life-support on Tuesday, January 2, 2026, mere days after the ice incident. The heartbreaking news prompted deep sympathy from their community.
Mary Lou Levitan’s tragic fate struck approximately 24 hours after her husband’s accident. She was on her way to retrieve Scott’s vehicle when her car became involved in a head-on collision on Friday, December 29, 2025. According to investigators, another vehicle crossed the centerline of the road and collided with the one Mary Lou was traveling in. She was seated in the rear when the crash occurred. The details of the crash remain under investigation, showcasing the unpredictable nature of life and the sudden turn of events surrounding such festive periods.
The Levitans, well-known residents of Livonia, are remembered not just for their tragedies but for how their community has banded together to support one another during this time of loss. Friends and family have expressed their sorrow, emphasizing the honor of their character and the love they shared with those around them. "It’s hard to fathom, just days apart like this. They were always there for others, and now we must be there for them," stated one close friend.
The circumstances surrounding both accidents serve as stark reminders of not only the fragility of life but also the depth of loss families face during the New Year’s season, typically seen as one filled with joy and promise. Acknowledging the struggle behind these tragedies, Sherri Thorne, one of their family friends, commented, "We were all so hopeful for the new year, yet it has brought nothing but heartbreak instead."
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident surrounding Mary Lou's fatal crash, seeking to understand why and how such tragic events unfolded so close together. Communities are rallying around both families affected by these unfortunate accidents, sending thoughts and prayers as they navigate through their grief.
With the seasonal festivities now starkly contrasting their loss, the Levitan family stands united among relatives who bear the weight of double bereavement. Each community member lends assistance or shared memories, emphasizing the importance of connection and support long after the holidays have passed.
Such events urge vigilance during winter seasons, especially where activities near ice bodies are involved, to avoid potential accidents like those experienced by the Levitan family. Local authorities have been showcasing safety campaigns, hoping to prevent similar incidents during this high-traffic time for outdoor enthusiasts.
Though Scott and Mary Lou Levitan have tragically parted from this world, their memories will continue to linger, reminding their family and friends of the love and warmth they provided. The connection of their lives holds firm through the many individuals whose lives they touched, serving as testimony to the relationships forged over years of companionship.
This story, marked by the unfortunate timing of separate accidents, calls upon us to cherish every moment with loved ones, particularly during holidays steeped with the promise of new beginnings.