One of the victims was three months pregnant at the time of the crash.
JACKSON COUNTY, Ga. — The eight individuals killed in a fiery crash on I-85 in Jackson County were identified by a family member days after the crash.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday, Oct. 13, just south of mile marker 147, a little after 4 p.m. Officials said the eight individuals were in a Dodge minivan that was rear-ended by a tanker semi-truck following too close behind them.
The ages of the victims ranged from three to 42 years old, and they were all from the same family.
The mother of one of the victims, 25-year-old Darwin Reyes Velasquez, told 11Alive’s Gilat Melamed that 42-year-old Maribel Ramirez, 16-year-old Justin Ramirez, 14-year-old Andy Ramirez, 11-year-old Natali Ramirez, four-year-old Kaylee, and three-year-old Evan Ramirez were the individuals in the van.
One of the victims, 22-year-old Kenia Ramirez, was three months pregnant at the time of the crash, the mother said.
The surviving family launched an online fundraiser to help raise money for the memorial service expenses. On the fundraiser page, the family said their hearts are heavy following this tragic accident:
“We are devastated. In these moments, there are truly no words to describe the pain that comes from the unexpected loss of our loved ones. We think not only about the memories made but those that were yet to come. What gives us consolation is that they are all now rejoicing in God’s loving arms and at peace. We are seeking assistance to cover the costs of their funeral services. All funds raised will go directly to the family to help with these expenses and any others incurred during this time. Any support is greatly appreciated. May God bless you all.”
Authorities arrested the semi-truck tanker driver, Kane Hammock, and charged him with eight counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree vehicular feticide, following too closely, distracted driving, and operation of a vehicle without a current plate.
