On Monday afternoon, a devastating multi-vehicle crash occurred on Georgia’s Interstate 85, leading to the deaths of eight family members and the severe injury of several others. The crash, reported around 4:10 p.m., was triggered when a semitruck struck the rear of a van, sparking a series of collisions that involved four additional vehicles. The van caught fire following the impact, and all seven people inside were pronounced dead at the scene, according to authorities. An eighth victim was discovered later at the crash site, raising the total number of fatalities to eight.
Kane Aaron Hammock, 33, the driver of the semitruck, has been charged with eight counts of vehicular homicide in the second degree and one count of feticide by vehicle in the second degree, according to the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Additionally, he faces charges of following too closely, no registration, and failure to exercise due care. Authorities have not revealed the exact circumstances leading to the crash, although the driver’s proximity to the van is a significant factor under investigation.
The victims have not been officially identified, but relatives have confirmed that Kenia Ramirez and Darwin Ventura, along with their child Kayle, were among the deceased. Sonia Maribel Ramirez, Ken,ia’s mother, was also killed, along with her children Justin, Andy, Natali, and Evan. The five children were between 2 and 16 years old. One of the victims may have been pregnant, pending confirmation from an autopsy. The crash site was near Commerce, and the incident has raised concerns about road safety and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
A van operated by Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters, which was transporting 37 cats, was also involved in the collision. The driver and several animals sustained injuries, and five cats remain missing. This incident has highlighted the tragic consequences of reckless driving and the importance of road safety measures. The ongoing investigation into the crash is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.