A Virginia family is grieving an unimaginable loss after a devastating crash on Christmas Day claimed the lives of a teenage girl and her grandmother.
Six members of the Vu family were driving home from a holiday dinner on Thursday, Dec. 25, when their van was rear-ended on the Beltway in Fairfax County, according to reports citing Virginia State Police and NBC Washington.
Fifteen-year-old Annie Vu, a sophomore at Annandale High School, was killed in the crash along with her 75-year-old grandmother, Su Nguyen. Four other family members who were inside the van were rushed to the hospital with serious injuries.
“I don’t know how to, how to live,” Annie’s mother, Duy Cao, said.
Cao was driving the van at the time of the collision. She said Annie’s 12-year-old brother, Andy, has been struggling to cope with the loss while also recovering from his injuries. Andy was released from the hospital four days after the crash, but a GoFundMe page set up to support the family says he suffered serious brain injuries and will need ongoing medical care.
“The family is in deep shock over the sudden and tragic loss of life,” wrote fundraiser organizer Rachel Vu. “They are asking for help to lighten the burden of this tragedy and allow Andy and his parents to focus on the long path of recovery ahead.”
The family alleges police told them the vehicle that struck their van was traveling at more than 100 miles per hour. They also claim the driver fled the scene to avoid arrest. Authorities have not yet released the driver’s name or announced any charges.
According to NBC Washington, prosecutors are waiting for toxicology results before determining what charges may be filed.
Nguyen was described as a devout Catholic who helped care for the children while Annie’s parents worked. Annie was remembered as a bright, hardworking student who hoped to study biology and pursue a career in healthcare.
Annandale High School shared a tribute to Annie on Facebook, calling her a “dedicated, bright, and hard-working student who left a lasting impression on all around her.” The school encouraged the community to support the family as they face funeral costs, medical bills, and long-term care needs.
The fundraiser has already surpassed its initial $20,000 goal, but the family continues to push for the driver responsible to face involuntary manslaughter charges rather than misdemeanor charges.
“I want everybody to pray for my mother-in-law and for my daughter so they can be in heaven,” Annie’s father, An Vu, said.
Virginia State Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment as the investigation remains ongoing.
This just tells me that we all must live ready to meet our Creator.The world today cares more for the perpetrator than the victims
Virginia, USA
Don’t hold your breath for any justice!!