In a tragic incident during a family vacation, a teenage driver's fatal sleep resulted in a devastating crash that claimed the lives of her father and two younger siblings. The incident took place in Idaho, leaving the community shocked and grieving.
The driver, identified as Dakota Miller, 17 years old, fell asleep behind the wheel while driving from Washington to Idaho, leading to a catastrophic outcome that forever altered the lives of the Miller family.
17-Year-Old Driver's Fatal Sleep Sent Their Vehicle Off a Cliff
According to NBC News, the Miller family embarked on a family vacation from Spokane, Washington, to their destination in Idaho.
As they failed to arrive as scheduled, concerns grew, and they were reported missing on Saturday morning. Hours later, a fisherman made a grim discovery when he found their vehicle overturned in the Salmon River, located north of Riggins, Idaho.
Authorities from the Idaho County Coroner's Office confirmed the devastating news: all occupants of the vehicle had tragically lost their lives. Investigations conducted by the Idaho County Sheriff's Office unveiled a heartbreaking chain of events leading to the fatal crash.
Upon investigation, it was revealed that Dakota Miller, the teenage driver, had fallen asleep while behind the wheel. Fatigue took its toll, and Dakota veered off the highway, colliding with a pile of rocks, causing the vehicle to dive into the cliff.
Another pile of rocks further amplified the impact, resulting in the car overturning and landing upside down in the Salmon River. Authorities estimate that the car plunged approximately 30 feet from the cliff into the river, with the driver's broken window allowing cold water to fill the vehicle, tragically causing the family to drown.
The combined efforts of the sheriff's office, Idaho State Police, Riggins Ambulance and Dive Team, and the Idaho Transportation Department were involved in responding to the distressing incident.
As reported by the Idaho County Coroner, the car was discovered submerged in the Salmon River, specifically in the vicinity of milepost 199, in an overturned position. Responding to the distressing situation, the Idaho State Police, Riggins Ambulance and Dive Team, and the Idaho Transportation Department promptly arrived at the scene to offer their assistance.
The individuals involved in this tragic incident were identified as Delihia Miller (8 years old), Jack Miller (10 years old), Dakota Miller (17 years old), and Calvin "CJ" Miller (36 years old), all hailing from Spokane, Washington.
Idaho Crash Left a Community Mourning
The news of the Miller family's tragic fate sent shockwaves through the community and left loved ones and neighbors grappling with profound grief.
According to USA Today, Zella Blair, the mother of the two youngest victims, Jack and Delilah Miller, who was not on the ill-fated road trip, expressed her immeasurable loss and longing for her children.
Blair received the devastating news about her ex-partner, Calvin "CJ" Miller, and his daughter, Dakota, losing their lives in the accident. The heartbroken mother tearfully shared her sentiments, stating, "I would give up anything for the rest of my life just to have them here with me. I just want my kids back."
As the community rallied to support the bereaved family, crowdfunding campaigns were set up to help cover the funeral expenses. One GoFundMe campaign aimed to assist with the Miller family's funeral costs, while another was established on behalf of Amberlynn Weber, Calvin's partner. The outpouring of generosity showcased the community's empathy, with the funds surpassing the $9,000 goal as of today, June 17.
As investigations continue, this heartbreaking accident serves as a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of driver fatigue and the importance of road safety.
The Miller family's story will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew them, leaving behind a community grappling with profound loss and an enduring call for vigilance on the roads.
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