[JeanW]

Their family had a devastating loss today - pray for them -

Steven Curtis Chapman’s youngest child died Wednesday evening after being struck by a car driven by her teenage brother in the driveway of the family’s Williamson County home.

Maria, one of the Christian singer’s six children, was taken by LifeFlight to Vanderbilt Hospital, which confirmed the death, according to Laura McPherson, a spokeswoman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

The 5-year-old was hit by an SUV driven by her teenage brother, she said. Police did not give the driver’s name.

The teen was driving a Toyota Land Cruiser down the driveway of the rural home at about 5:30 p.m. and several children were playing in the area, McPherson said. He did not see Maria in the driveway before the vehicle struck her, she said.

“It appears to be a terrible accident,’’ McPherson said.

http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll ... /1199/RAGE

[Sly Fox]

I have added a prayer request thread in the Chapel.

The entire family outside of their oldest daughter came to my church for a concert on Valentines night. The two oldest sons play drums and guitar in Stephen's band. The oldest Caleb just released his first album and opens up for his dad. The song "Cinderella" was inspired by the girl who passed away and her younger sister.

I'll be honest and tell you that this breaks my heart. This could happen to any of us who might be distracted or simply not paying enough attention. And I'll bet PAmedic and Scuzdriver can attest to how often these accidents do happen.

The family now has to deal with not only the horrible loss but also the guilt that will come over the family. They desperately need prayers support.

[bigsmooth]

wow that's horrible. pryaers go out to his family.

[JeanW]

I woke up thinking about this. It is just heartbreaking. We need to cover them all with prayer.

And, Sly, you're so right. This could happen to any of us.

God is in control - it is harder to realize at times like these.

[TDDance234]

I'm going to close this thread in the Courtyard since it's more appropriate for the Chapel and we have a thread going there.