A tragic single-vehicle crash in Pleasanton, California, claimed the lives of a family of four on Wednesday evening, as confirmed by authorities on Thursday. The devastating incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Foothill Road between Stoneridge Drive and West Las Positas Road in the western part of the city. Police reported that Foothill Road was shut down in both directions near Moller Ranch Road following the crash, with the closure extending into Thursday morning.
Authorities announced on Thursday afternoon that four individuals had tragically perished in the crash. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with more information to be released as it becomes available. “For now, our priority is safeguarding the victims’ identities as we inform their family and conduct our investigation,” stated the police in a press release.
During a press briefing later on Thursday, Patrick Gannon, Director of Communications for the Pleasanton Unified School District, disclosed that counseling and support services were being offered to students, families, and staff in response to the tragedy. Gannon emphasized that the impact was significant, as an entire family was lost in the crash, creating a somber mood among the district’s students.
Foothill Road has been the site of several fatal accidents in recent years, underscoring the dangers of the road. Past incidents include a Christmas night crash in 2017 that resulted in the deaths of twin teenage brothers and their friend, as well as a 2013 collision involving a speeding teenager that claimed the life of a bicyclist. The road, primarily a two-lane route bordered by trees, typically has speed limits of 45 or 40 mph, with reduced speeds of 25 mph in the presence of children.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with road travel, urging communities to prioritize safety measures and vigilance on the roadways. As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, the community mourns the loss of the family and grapples with the emotional aftermath of the incident.