MMA Fighter Marcus Kowal's 15-Month-Old Son Liam Killed by Alleged Drunk Driver
MMA fighter Marcus Kowal's 15-month-old son, Liam, was taken off life support on Sunday, after being struck in his stroller by an alleged drunk driver.
"About an hour ago, our baby was declared brain dead," Kowal posted to Facebook on Friday night. "He tried to fight so hard. He even died at one point but they brought him back. He's a little fighter."
"His heart is still beating but his brain is no longer working," he continued. "Our hearts are broken and there's a void in my soul but we will get through this."
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According to Hawthorne, California, police, a car crashed into Kowal's child and a 15-year-old girl, Liam's aunt (according to a GoFundMe page for the family), on Saturday afternoon.
Police allege the driver of the vehicle, Donna Marie Higgins, 72, attempted to flee the scene, but was prevented from leaving by witnesses to the crime.
The two victims were found in the street near the crosswalk and taken to UCLA Medical Hospital. According to a press release, Liam was "found pulseless and not breathing" and was promptly taken to the ICU, while his aunt was reportedly in "stable condition" after suffering from leg injuries.
Police determined that Higgins was allegedly driving under the influence after performing a field sobriety test. She was arrested under the charges of felony hit-and-run and felony drunk driving, but was released after posting bail, which was set at $100,000.
An update from the Hawthorne Police Department states that the Traffic Bureau will be pursuing additional charges against Higgins following Liam's death.
Kowal, whose Instagram account was filled with photos and videos of his young son, took to the social media site to share his gratitude for fans' support.
"The support we have received from the Martial Arts world is unreal," he posted on Monday, along with a sweet pic of Liam. "Tears are running down my cheeks as I look at this picture of my little boy."