Boys, 10 and 8, dead after horror crash involving police car rips family apart
The officer's patrol unit slammed into the family's Honda Odyssey carrying five children - all five children were rushed to hospital but sadly two have died as a result of their injuries
A family has been torn apart after a police car ploughed into their minivan, leaving two young boys dead and their three sisters critically injured in hospital.
The devastating crash, which happened just after 7pm on Thursday, October 23, involved an on-duty Baytown Police Department officer who was responding to an emergency call. According to investigators, the collision occurred at an intersection in Baytown east of Houston, when the officer's patrol unit slammed into the family's Honda Odyssey carrying five children.
Preliminary findings from in-car video and witness statements indicate that the police officer had a green light and the right of way in the intersection where the crash occurred.
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An update posted on the Police Facebook page reads: "Tragically, two siblings, ages 8 and 10, have succumbed to injuries sustained as a result of the crash. Two additional siblings who were also in the vehicle at the time of the collision remain hospitalized in critical condition. Out of respect for the family, the names of the children involved will not be released at this time.
"This is a devastating loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and community members who have been affected. Our department remains committed to conducting a complete, thorough, and transparent investigation into the facts surrounding this tragic event. This type of investigation is a complex matter, and we are working closely with our outside partners to ensure it is completed not only in a timely manner, but also in a complete and thorough fashion."
Chief John Stringer said: “This tragedy leaves us without words. Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for everyone impacted. As a father I feel this loss deeply and my heart breaks for everyone involved. We extend our sincerest condolences to the family during this heartbreaking time.”
A message on a GoFundMe page gave an update on the children's condition, it reads: "The two boys (8 and 10) “passed peacefully on Tuesday, October 28th surrounded by the love and support of family. In knowing the hearts and minds of [their] beautiful boys [the family] made the decision for them to share the gift of life through organ donation.
"The two younger girls (14 and 3) were released from the hospital this week. The oldest (16) is still fighting to overcome her injuries. There is still a long and hard road to recovery. Thank you for the many donations, love, support, and prayers."
You can donate to the GoFundMe page by clicking here.