TUSCARAWAS COUNTY, Ohio – Authorities are investigating a shocking and tragic incident in which a mother allegedly intentionally drove her children into a lake, resulting in the deaths of a 45-year-old father and his 4-year-old son. The victims have been identified as Marcus J. Miller, 45, and Vincen Miller, 4, both residents of Millersburg, Ohio, according to the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office.
Incident Overview
The events unfolded on Saturday, August 23, 2025, during the family’s vacation at Atwood Lake. Deputies initially responded to a golf cart crash involving a woman and three of her children: a 15-year-old daughter and 18-year-old twin sons. The teenagers escaped without injury, but authorities became alarmed by the mother’s concerning statements about conversing with God, signaling possible mental health issues and raising immediate concerns for the rest of the family’s safety.
Later that night, at approximately 1 a.m., the woman and her husband went to the docks and entered the water, reportedly believing that God was speaking to them. Witnesses described them as attempting to carry out tasks they believed would prove their faith. After returning to the campgrounds, Marcus Miller reportedly told his wife he intended to return to the lake. He was last seen at the dock around 6:30 a.m.
Tragically, at around 8:30 a.m., the mother placed her 4-year-old son, Vincen, in a gold cart and drove recklessly before returning to the docks, where she drowned her son. Following an extensive search, deputies recovered Vincen from the water near a dock later that day. Marcus Miller’s body was located in the same area the following day.
Investigation and Official Statements
Authorities have indicated that the mother’s actions appeared intentional, and the investigation is ongoing. Tuscarawas County Sheriff Orvis Campbell told WKYC that the woman may have been experiencing a “spiritual delusion” and allegedly told a witness that she had “given her son to the Lord.”
The family, who are Amish, had been visiting Atwood Lake for a weekend getaway, and the community is reeling from the tragic turn of events.
An autopsy is underway to determine the exact cause and manner of death for both Marcus and Vincen Miller.
Current Status of the Mother
The woman, who has not been publicly named, is currently receiving mental health treatment. Officials have indicated that she is expected to be formally charged with aggravated murder on Tuesday, August 26.
Community Reaction
The tragedy has left the Millersburg and wider Amish community in shock. Neighbors, friends, and local authorities have expressed deep sorrow over the devastating events, emphasizing the need for support and compassion during this difficult time.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information regarding the events leading up to the deaths to come forward, as the investigation seeks to fully understand the circumstances behind this heart-wrenching incident.
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