Three reality stars, all members of the Putman family, die in car crash - as several others fight for their life in hospital
Three reality stars, who are all members of the same family, have died in a car crash.
Three members of the Putman family, stars of the reality show Meet the Putmans, were killed in an accident that has left several others remain in hospital fighting for their lives.
The news was confirmed in an Instagram post on Saturday (September 27) by family member Isabelle, who said that the family patriarch Bill “Papa” Putman, his wife Barb “Neenee” Putman and daughter-in-law Megan Putman had all died from their injuries.
She wrote: “Dear friends and family, I come to you with a heavy heart asking for your prayers. Our family was in a tragic car accident and we lost Papa, Neenee, and Aunt Megan. 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, we are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them.”
The Putmans became the subject of a reality show on TLC eight years ago as fans were fascinated by their lifestyle, which saw 25 family members all living under one roof. They soon won fans for their faith, humour and closeness. The show moved to YouTube in 2021 under a new name, Growing Up Putman.
In a longer message, Isabelle wrote about the family’s unshakable Christian faith despite their grief.
“ My entire family — Papa, Neenee, Billy, Jen, Brandon, Kacie, Blake, Megan, Jamie, Blair, myself (Isabelle), Abby, Emma, Addison, Bella, Mercy, Gabby, Noah, Mya, Nova, Lulu, Alena, Gia, Jonah, Eli, Solomon, Uriah, Samson, Luke, and Anna — all proclaim that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. He is our hope, our peace, and our salvation. Even in this time of heartbreak, we rest in knowing that God is in control.”
She added: “We ask for your continued prayers for Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah, and Gia as they recover, and for our whole family as we walk through this deep loss.”
Fans of the family took to social media with many messages of condolences. One person wrote: “I’m incredibly shaken to hear of this great tragedy. Your sweet Neenee, Papa, and Aunt Megan leave such a beautiful legacy and testimony. Sending so much love and prayers for the rest of you in these coming days. Thankful for the hope that you have to be reunited some day.”
A second said: “My heart is broken for your entire family. You all will continue to be in my prayers during this time. Praying for a healing physically and emotionally. Your family is such an inspiration. Sending love to your family.”
A third said: “I have never cried so hard for a family I've never met. I don't even have enough words to say how sorry I am for your loss. I am going on my knees in prayer for you and your family.”
The nature of the car accident is not yet known.