Fairfax, CA – Four teenage girls were killed and two others seriously injured in a fatal accident in Marin County that occurred Friday night on San Geronimo Valley Road, about five miles northwest of Fairfax. The school community and families held an emotional vigil on Saturday, where hundreds gathered to honor the victims’ memory.
Details of the Tragic Accident
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the six teenagers—all students at Archie Williams High School in San Anselmo—were traveling in a Volkswagen SUV when the vehicle veered off the road, crashed into a tree, and caught fire. The accident occurred around 7:30 p.m.
The victims have been identified as:
- Olive Koren
- Josalynn Osborn
- Sienna Katz
- Ada Kepley
Two survivors, Elsa Laremont Stranczek and Marley Barclay, were transported in critical condition to the hospital. Marley’s family later confirmed she is in stable condition and recovering at Oakland Children’s Hospital.
A Community in Mourning
During the vigil, teachers, relatives, and religious leaders shared words of comfort. Josalynn’s family stated:
“Our family will never be the same. Josy was a spark, a bright smile, with dreams as big as her personality.”
Ada’s family described her as “an artist with a kind soul and irreverent humor who made everyone feel included.”
Witnesses also noted that good Samaritans acted quickly at the scene—one of them even saving a young woman by pulling her from the burning vehicle.
Teen Road Safety: An Urgent Reality
According to the NHTSA, traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in California. Risk factors include group driving, lack of experience, and operating larger SUVs without full control of the vehicle.
This tragedy highlights the need to strengthen driver education, reduce distractions, and implement safer driving policies for teens. It also reignites discussion around rural road conditions and vehicle safety for young drivers in California.
How Can Ayuda California Help?
While our firm is rooted in defending the Latino community, at Ayuda California, we fight for all victims of car accidents in California, especially when young lives and entire communities are devastated.
✔️ Free consultation to understand your legal rights
✔️ Aggressive representation in cases of negligence, unsafe road design, or mechanical failure
✔️ Comprehensive assistance, medical care, and emotional support after a crash
Get the medical care you need and the compensation you deserve
📞 If you or a loved one were victims of a car accident in California, contact us today. We’re here to help you.
