The community of Richfield Township is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 8-month-old Tyr Ronald Kinnamon, a precious young child whose life was tragically cut short following a devastating crash Thursday afternoon. Tyr was traveling with his mother, 29-year-old Kelli Raye, and his siblings when the collision occurred. The unimaginable tragedy has left the family shattered while neighbors and community members rally around them with prayers, support, and sympathy during an incredibly painful time.
According to authorities, the crash occurred around 3:45 p.m. along M-15 near Clark Road, just north of Davison. Investigators say Kelli Raye was driving a Jeep Patriot with her three young children when she stopped on the roadway while waiting to make a left turn. Moments later, a Chevrolet utility truck driven by a 49-year-old man from Taylor struck the vehicle from behind with significant force.
The impact of the collision left Raye and her children — ages four, two, and eight months — seriously injured. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and rushed the victims to nearby hospitals where medical teams worked urgently to provide lifesaving care. Despite those efforts, baby Tyr Ronald Kinnamon was tragically pronounced dead at Hurley Medical Center, leaving loved ones and the wider community devastated by the loss of such a young life.
The death of a child so young is a sorrow that is difficult to put into words. In just eight months of life, Tyr had already become the center of his family’s world. Loved ones say he brought smiles, warmth, and joy to those around him. Though his time on earth was brief, the love he shared with his family will remain a lasting memory carried in their hearts forever.
For a mother like Kelli Raye, the bond with a child begins long before birth and grows deeper with every moment spent together. The soft laughter of a baby, tiny hands reaching for comfort, and the quiet moments of care become treasured memories. Now, those memories are what loved ones will hold onto as they face a grief no parent should ever have to endure.
Authorities said the two other young children involved in the crash remain hospitalized, with one listed in critical condition and the other in stable condition. Their mother also remains hospitalized while receiving medical treatment. The driver of the truck was treated at the scene for minor injuries and later released. Investigators with the Davison Area Reconstruction Team continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, noting that intoxication is not believed to have been a factor. As the investigation continues, the community stands united in mourning the loss of Tyr Ronald Kinnamon while keeping his family in their thoughts during this deeply difficult time.
