Three members of the Putman family, stars of the TLC reality show Meet the Putmans, have been killed in a devastating car crash, while several others remain in hospital fighting for their lives. The shocking news was confirmed in an Instagram post on Saturday by family member Isabelle, who revealed that family patriarch Bill "Papa" Putman, his wife Barb "Neenee" Putman and daughter-in-law Megan Putman all died from their injuries.

She wrote: "Dear friends and family, I come to you with a heavy heart asking for your prayers. Our family was in a tragic car accident and we lost Papa, Neenee, and Aunt Megan. They have gone home to be with the Lord. Please keep Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah, and Gia in your prayers as they remain in the hospital, we are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them.

The Putmans, whose unconventional household of 25 all living under one roof was first showcased in 2017 on TLC, became fan favourites for their faith, humour and tight-knit dynamic.

The show was later revived on YouTube as Growing Up Putman in 2021.

In a longer message, Isabelle shared the family's unshakable Christian faith despite their grief.

"My entire family - Papa, Neenee, Billy, Jen, Brandon, Kacie, Blake, Megan, Jamie, Blair, myself (Isabelle), Abby, Emma, Addison, Bella, Mercy, Gabby, Noah, Mya, Nova, Lulu, Alena, Gia, Jonah, Eli, Solomon, Uriah, Samson, Luke, and Anna - all proclaim that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior.

"He is our hope, our peace, and our salvation. Even in this time of heartbreak, we rest in knowing that God is in control."

The family added: "We ask for your continued prayers for Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah, and Gia as they recover, and for our whole family as we walk through this deep loss."

Fans of the TLC clan flooded social media with condolences. One wrote: "My heart is broken for your entire family. You all will continue to be in my prayers during this time. Praying for a healing physically and emotionally. Your family is such an inspiration."

Another devastated follower commented: "I'm incredibly shaken to hear of this great tragedy. Your sweet Neenee, Papa, and Aunt Megan leave such a beautiful legacy and testimony. Sending so much love and prayers for the rest of you in these coming days."

Others who had watched Meet the Putmans since its debut shared their disbelief, with one posting: "Loved you all since your show and I'm heartbroken for you ... prayers for all of you for peace and comfort."

Another simply said: "Is this real?"