Three members of TLC’s ‘Meet the Putmans’ family killed in a tragic car crash

Three members of the Putman family, featured in TLC’s reality show Meet the Putmans, tragically lost their lives in a car accident on Friday night. The accident occurred near Cass City, Michigan, when a semi-truck ran through a stop sign and collided with the family’s jeep at a rural intersection, according to the Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office.

Bill “Papa” Putman, his wife Barb “Neenee” Putman, and their daughter-in-law Megan Putman died at the scene. Megan’s husband, Blake, and their three children — Lulu, Alena, and Noah — along with niece Gia, were all transported to hospitals by helicopter, some in critical condition. The semi-truck driver and his female passenger suffered only minor injuries.

In a statement shared by the family, they requested prayers for the surviving members still recovering in the hospital, and expressed their faith in God during this heartbreaking time. “Even in this time of heartbreak, we rest in knowing that God is in control,” the family said, asking for continued support and prayers for complete healing and strength.

The family also announced that despite their loss, they were finding solace in their Christian faith, emphasizing that Jesus Christ is their source of hope and peace. Bill and Barb’s emotional relationship was highlighted just days before the crash when Barb posted a heartfelt message on Instagram celebrating Bill’s birthday.

The Putmans gained national attention in 2017 with Meet the Putmans, which followed the lives of 25 family members living under one roof. The series was not renewed for a second season but later continued on YouTube as Growing Up Putman in 2021.

The Putman family has asked for privacy during this difficult time as they grieve their immense loss.