Kansas City, MO –
Two sisters were tragically killed in a devastating crash on Interstate 435 late Friday night, as confirmed by Kansas City police. The victims, identified as 24-year-old Maria Rodriguez and 27-year-old Carmen Rodriguez, were traveling together when their vehicle collided with another car, resulting in the fatal crash.
According to authorities, the accident occurred around 11:30 PM on the southbound lanes of I-435 near the Truman Road exit. The sisters were in a 2016 Toyota Corolla when they lost control of the vehicle in slick road conditions caused by recent rain. Their car then veered into another lane, where it was struck by a passing truck. The force of the collision caused the Toyota to overturn, ultimately leading to the sisters’ deaths.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, but despite their best efforts, both sisters were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the truck involved in the accident, a 45-year-old male, was uninjured, though he was transported to the hospital for a precautionary evaluation.
Investigators believe that weather conditions may have played a role in the crash, with reports indicating that rain and fog had made driving conditions hazardous on the stretch of highway where the accident occurred. Authorities are still reviewing the cause of the collision and have asked any witnesses to come forward with additional information.
The deaths of Maria and Carmen Rodriguez have sent shockwaves through the local community. Family and friends have expressed their grief on social media, remembering the sisters as kind-hearted individuals who were always there for others. Maria was a recent graduate of the University of Kansas, while Carmen had been working as a nurse at a nearby hospital. Both were beloved by their family, friends, and colleagues.
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“We are devastated by the loss of these two bright and beautiful young women,” said a family spokesperson in a statement. “Maria and Carmen were everything to us. Their lives were taken far too soon, and we ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Kansas City police are continuing their investigation into the crash, including looking into whether speed or impairment were factors. No charges have been filed at this time, but authorities have confirmed that the truck driver was fully cooperating with the investigation.
The tragic deaths have prompted calls for greater awareness of the dangers of driving in inclement weather, particularly on busy highways like I-435. Local officials are reminding drivers to exercise caution during adverse weather conditions and to remain alert for rapidly changing road conditions.
As the community mourns, friends and loved ones have organized a memorial fund to support the Rodriguez family during this painful time. Funeral arrangements for the two sisters are expected to be announced in the coming days.
The Kansas City Police Department continues to ask anyone who witnessed the crash to contact their Traffic Investigation Unit with any relevant information.