IRONWOOD TOWNSHIP, Mich. — The community of Ironwood Township is mourning the tragic loss of 2-year-old Darwin Olson, who was killed in a hit-and-run crash before sunrise on March 19 at the intersection of Lake and Sunset roads.
Deputies with the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Office responded at 4:41 a.m. after reports of a child lying unresponsive. Upon arrival, they confirmed that Darwin had died. The driver responsible fled the scene and has not yet been identified. Michigan State Police, including crash reconstruction specialists, are assisting with the investigation.
Roads remained closed for several hours as authorities documented the scene and gathered evidence. Sheriff Jorge Cruz described the death of such a young child as a heartbreaking loss that has shaken the community.
Darwin’s mother, Jessica Fernandez, has shared in the grief, while neighbors have created a growing memorial at the site with flowers, stuffed animals, and prayers. A local nonprofit, Ben’s Closet, is helping raise funds for funeral expenses.
Darwin was just days away from turning three. Authorities confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public, and the investigation into the hit-and-run remains active. The community continues to grieve while seeking answers.
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