Michelle Zenchuk, 49, Melissa Headley, 8, and Christopher Platt, 22, killed, and one child critically injured in side-collision car crash at Buckshutem and University roads in Millville, New Jersey
2 drivers, child killed in Millville crash identified
"The younger driver was a good friend of mine for years. He was a really good guy too," said Jake Zenchuk."He would never hurt anybody intentionally, anybody ever. Ever. He was a great person," Kimberly Green, a friend of Platt's.
Young girl the third to die following crash in Millville Sunday
“We initiated lifesaving, and she did regain a pulse,” the chief said. This allowed rescuers to transport her to Cooper. One of the rescue squad’s EMT nurses on the scene was the girl’s aunt, the chief said.
Child, 2 Drivers Die in South Jersey Crash
No word yet from police on an exact cause of the wreck, which happened just after Platt left a nearby racecourse. Neighbors in the area said speeding often occurs in the area.
Girl, 8, killed in crash memorialized with garden at elementary school
A plaque at the garden shows Melissa's toothy smile — a smile she shared with everyone — and informs anyone who reads it of her love of reading, nature, fun, laughter, family and friends. Family, friends, loved ones and teachers assembled at the garden Tuesday morning to officially dedicate it.
The fatal collision occurred at 4:15 p.m. Sunday at the intersection of Buckshutem and University roads when a Honda Civic crashed into the side of a Toyota Camry driven by Michelle Zenchuk, 49, who died at the crash site. Overnight, 8-year-old Melissa Headley, a family friend, died at Cooper University Hospital. A child thought to be 3 years old was listed in critical condition.The driver of the Honda was identified as Christopher Platt, 22. Witnesses reported that two cars, including the Honda, were speeding down Buckshutem Road before the crash. Platt's vehicle swerved and passed another car before it went out of control. Police considering speed, and possibly racing, as potential factors in the collision.
Why every fatality from a crash is not legally a wrongful death
After someone dies in a motor-vehicle accident, grieving family members and friends are often left with many questions. What caused the accident? Could it have been avoided? What do they do now that their loved one is gone?
Sometimes a fatal collision happens through no one's fault. Crashes caused by weather and road conditions, or by wildlife in the roadway, are examples. But when a fatal crash is caused by negligence, then family members should pursue a wrongful death claim, to uphold the victim's rights and begin the financial recovery process. Learn more about wrongful death claims here.
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