Family Killed in Tragic Hillside Crash: Witness Recounts Scene

Elderly Indian-American Family Dies in West Virginia Car Crash

marshall County, WV – A tragic car accident in Marshall County, West Virginia, has claimed the lives of four members of an Indian-origin family. The victims, identified as Dr. Kishore Divan (89), Mrs. Asha Divan (85), Mr. Shailesh Divan (86), and Mrs.Gita Divan (84), were found deceased on Saturday, august 3rd, after being reported missing from Buffalo, New York.

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the vehicle was discovered at approximately 9:30 PM, having left the road and descended a steep embankment along Big Wheeling Creek Road. First responders spent over five hours at the scene. Sheriff Mike Dougherty has extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victims.

The Divan family was traveling from Buffalo to Prabhupada‘s Palace of Gold, a renowned ISKCON temple in west Virginia, when the incident occurred. They were last sighted at a Burger King restaurant in Pennsylvania on July 29th, sparking a multi-state search.

A witness,Ronald Rush Jr., shared on the Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page that the vehicle was located roughly eight miles from the temple, suggesting a possible loss of control leading to the 100-foot plunge down the hillside.

Community Mourns Loss of Dedicated Family

The passing of the Divans has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from those who knew them.Tributes shared online highlight the family’s active involvement in cultural and religious activities at the Hindu Jain Temple in East amherst, New York.

Dr. Kishore divan is remembered as a respected physician, having served as head of the Anesthesiology department at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Erie County, New York. Following his retirement, he dedicated his time to travel and engagement with the local American Indian community.

“This is a most heartbreaking tragedy,” one Facebook user wrote, praising the family’s loving and caring nature. Another simply stated, “I know them very well. Very good hearted people. So sorry.”

Road Safety & Senior Drivers: A Growing Concern

This incident underscores the vulnerability of all drivers, and particularly highlights the increasing need for awareness surrounding road safety for senior citizens. According to the National Highway traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers 65 and older are more likely to be injured or killed in a crash than any other age group.

Factors contributing to this increased risk can include age-related declines in vision, hearing, and reaction time. While many seniors remain safe and capable drivers well into their later years, its crucial for families to have open conversations about driving safety and potential limitations. Resources like the AARP Driver Safety Course can provide valuable tools and details for maintaining safe driving habits.

The Appeal of Spiritual Journeys for Seniors

The Divan family’s pilgrimage to Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold also speaks to a broader trend: the growing popularity of spiritual and religious travel among seniors. Retirement often provides the time and opportunity for individuals to explore their faith and connect with sacred sites. this type of travel can offer profound personal enrichment and a sense of community. However, it also necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential health and safety factors, especially for long-distance journeys.

What potential factors, beyond the initial report of failing to negotiate a curve, are being investigated as possible causes of the crash?

The Scene of the Accident

A devastating car accident on Highway 17 near Redwood City claimed the lives of a family of four yesterday afternoon. The incident, reported at approximately 3:15 PM PST, involved a single vehicle leaving the roadway and descending a steep hillside. Initial reports from the california Highway Patrol (CHP) indicate the vehicle, a silver Honda CRV, failed to negotiate a sharp curve.

Witnesses at the scene described a harrowing scene. “It happened so fast,” stated Maria Sanchez, a local resident who witnessed the immediate aftermath. “I heard a screech, then a thud, and then…silence.When I looked over, the car was halfway down the hill. It was just…amazing.” Sanchez, along with other bystanders, immediately contacted emergency services.

victims Identified

The victims have been identified as David Miller, 42; his wife, Sarah Miller, 38; and their two children, eight-year-old Emily and six-year-old James.The family was reportedly returning home from a weekend camping trip in Big basin Redwoods State Park. The santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department is assisting with the investigation.

Rescue Efforts and challenges

Emergency responders faced notable challenges accessing the crash site due to the steep terrain and dense vegetation. A specialized rescue team, including firefighters and paramedics, utilized ropes and specialized equipment to reach the vehicle. despite their efforts, all four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

Challenging Terrain: the hillside’s incline and thick brush hampered rescue operations.

Vehicle Instability: The vehicle’s precarious position presented a risk of further collapse.

Limited Access: ambulances and larger emergency vehicles were unable to reach the site directly.

CHP Investigation: Preliminary Findings

The CHP is currently investigating the cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest speed may have been a contributing factor,but investigators are also examining other possibilities,including:

1. Mechanical Failure: A thorough inspection of the vehicle is underway to rule out any mechanical issues.
2. Driver Fatigue: Investigators are looking into weather driver fatigue played a role in the crash.
3. Road conditions: While the road was dry at the time of the accident, investigators are reviewing recent maintenance records.

“We are conducting a full and thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of this tragic incident,” stated CHP Officer Ricardo Diaz at a press conference this morning. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the victims.”

Witness Testimony: A First-Hand Account

Maria Sanchez provided a more detailed account of what she saw.”The car was going pretty fast, I think.It was taking the curve,and then it just…drifted. It didn’t look like the driver tried to correct it. it just went straight off the road. It was awful. I keep replaying it in my head.” Sanchez also noted that there were no other vehicles immediately involved in the incident.

Highway 17: A History of Accidents

Highway 17, known for its winding roads and steep grades, has a history of traffic accidents. Local advocacy groups have long called for improvements to the highway, including:

Guardrail Upgrades: Strengthening guardrails along curves to prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway.

Improved Signage: Installing clearer and more visible warning signs.

Speed Reduction: Lowering the speed limit in particularly hazardous sections.

According to data from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), there have been 15 reported accidents on this stretch of Highway 17 in the past year, three of which resulted in fatalities.

Community Response and Support

The local community has rallied to support the families of the victims. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance. Local churches and community organizations are also offering grief counseling and support services. Donations can be made at[InsertGoFundMeLinkHere-*Note:Replacewithactuallink[InsertGoFundMeLinkHere-*Note:Replacewithactuallink