Photographer records family’s last moments hours before deadly crash claims all five members

Rhae Harris, a photographer from Ohio, was profoundly affected by a tragedy involving a family she photographed. Tragically, the family was killed in a car accident less than 12 hours after their first photo session. “Though I did not know them well, I am devastated by this news, so I cannot imagine what their family and friends are going through,” she expressed.

Harris, 45, who owns Rhae Rose Photography in Delta, Ohio, revealed on her Facebook page that she had been communicating with Muriel Michael, 28, for some time about arranging a photoshoot for the family of five. The two finally met on Saturday, March 26.

“The kids were just so well behaved and adorable, and the baby, Riggs, was the best one year old I’ve ever had! He was so happy, smiled on que, even said CHEEEEESSEEEEE a few times!!!”

Muriel, her fiancé Xavier Brown, 25, and their one-year-old son Riggs Brown, along with Muriel’s other children, Aurora Michael, 7, and Deklin Jankowski, 9, took Easter-themed photos. Harris shared that the family’s love for each other was evident and it radiated through their pictures.

Harris was looking forward to future collaborations with Muriel, as she had expressed her wish to use Rhae’s services for her engagement and wedding photos. Tragically, that opportunity would never come as the family met with a devastating accident shortly after their photoshoot.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported that the fatal crash involved Zane Hull, 21, who failed to yield while driving eastbound on County Road H. He collided with Muriel’s vehicle, which was heading south on County Road 14 in Clinton Township.

Xavier and Deklin tragically lost their lives at the accident scene. Aurora and Riggs were urgently airlifted to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, but sadly, they did not survive their severe injuries. Muriel was also taken to the hospital by air ambulance and tragically succumbed to her injuries on Monday night.

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident sustained only minor injuries. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of never taking anything for granted. Please share this story and send thoughts and prayers to the loved ones of this family.