On the evening of Sunday, July 27, 2025, a heartbreaking tragedy occurred in Holly Township, Michigan, when 29-year-old Samantha “Sam” Skinner lost her life while protecting her 1‑year‑old daughter. The incident happened during what was supposed to be a routine custody exchange in a parking lot at Alex’s Market & Grill – a gathering that would cost her everything.
During the exchange, Sam was caring for her daughter Marley Mae, while overseeing her stepson. A 72‑year‑old man pulling out of an adjacent parking space struck them both. In a moment of maternal instinct, Sam shielded her daughter from the vehicle, absorbing the brunt of the impact. Tragically, Sam succumbed to her injuries. Marley Mae survived but sustained broken bones, and is reportedly in stable condition at a local hospital.
Michigan State Police have taken the driver into custody on suspicion of being under the influence of narcotics at the time of the accident. The investigation remains open, with charges and legal proceedings pending.
Tiffany MacDermaid, Sam’s cousin and close friend, described the family’s grief: “It’s such a terrible, tragic way to go… from the carelessness of another human. It’s horrific.” She emphasized that the custody exchange should have been a normal event but was turned into unspeakable loss.
Sam Skinner was known as a devoted mother—she prioritized her child’s safety above all. Marley Mae and her stepson were central to her life. Reports indicate this exchange was part of an ongoing, peaceful family arrangement. A moment meant to preserve family bonds instead ended in heartbreak.
While Sam’s life was irretrievably lost, her baby daughter Marley Mae is expected to recover. Medical updates note she has suffered broken bones but is healing. The broader public response in Holly Township has been one of sorrow and disbelief.
While an official funeral notice has not yet been published, the circumstances of her passing and her heroism have captured local hearts. Her obituary will likely celebrate her fierce devotion to her children and her ultimate act of sacrifice.
This tragedy highlights the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of driver impairment. According to Michigan’s 2022 Annual Drunk Driving Audit, approximately 40% of all fatal crashes involved alcohol or drugs, illustrating that impaired driving remains a major public safety crisis.
