Some seven members of a family from Washington state have been killed in a horrific car crash. Five children were among the dead in the head-on collision which occurred in eastern Oregon while the family was traveling to Las Vegas.
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Erika Boquet, 29, of Tacoma, and her three children, ages 6 to 11, plus another relative and that family’s two children were all said to be in a 2016 Toyota 4Runner that was involved in the brutal smash. Their car was hit by a 1999 Toyota 4Runner, which authorities has stated swerved into oncoming traffic.
“It’s a tragedy I wouldn’t wish on anyone else,” Boquet’s brother, Jessie Tate told the Oregonian.
UPDATE: Two adults, 5 children from Puget Sound area killed in head-on crash in Oregonhttps://t.co/pcXKaaE8EG pic.twitter.com/ihaSu6EAaV
— FOX 13 Seattle (@fox13seattle) August 15, 2018
Along with the seven people who were killed in the family vehicle, the lone driver of the other SUV was also dead at the scene. The driver of the other SUV has been identified as Mark Robert Rundell, 48, of Prairie City.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the family cover funeral expenses.
The page description reads:
“Erika and the kids were in a fatal car crash on August 13th, 2018. They were traveling out of Town for a family vacation and never made it to their destination. Our family is at a complete loss. We are trying come up with enough money to bring them home and give them the proper burial they deserve. Erika was kind and always giving to others. Her heart was big and full of compassion. Words can not describe how much Erika, Bella, Elisa and Tytis will be missed. Taken from us way to soon. Til we meet again “We love you and pray you are in a better place.”
So far, over $30,000 has been raised for the family, far exceeding a target of $10,000. “I want to say thank you to everyone who has helped raise money to bring our loved ones home,” Tate wrote in an update August 15. “It means alot to us that so many people have supported us in this tough time.”
Many posted messages of condolence and support to the funding page. “May god be with you during this difficult time. My sincerest condolences,” one person wrote. “My deepest condolences go out to your family at this time. Take comfort in knowing your loved ones are in God’s home now,” another added.
“My heart breaks for you and the beautiful family you lost. I wish you strength, courage, and eventually, peace.”
Tate said his sister was absolutely devoted to her volunteer work through a Tacoma-based nonprofit she founded called “Last Stop,” which provides resources to low-income families.
“She was outgoing, personable, made friends everywhere she went, and her kids took after her,” Tate said. “They all just cared about everyone around them.”
Do pray for the extended family as they come to terms with this dreadful loss.