Speeding caused Marin County crash that killed 4 girls, CHP report finds

(KRON) — A 16-year-old girl had her driver’s license for just a few months before she crashed an SUV near Woodacre in Marin County and four girls in the SUV died, according to a California Highway Patrol report obtained by KRON4 News.

All six of the girls in the Volkswagen Tiguan SUV were Archie Williams High School students, close friends, and between ages 14-16, school district officials said. Ninth-grader Olive Koren, and 10th graders Josalynn Osborn, Sienna Katz, and Ada Kepley, were killed in the April 18 crash.

A 14-year-old passenger and the 16-year-old driver survived with help from good Samaritans who pulled the girls out of the burning SUV. They suffered from severe burn injuries.

The CHP report reveals what caused the horrific fiery crash. A photograph of the mangled SUV’s speedometer shows the gauge was stuck at nearly 60 miles-per-hour after it slammed into a tree on San Geronimo Valley Road.

The crash happened on a narrow road flanked by large redwood trees. According to the CHP report, speeding played a major role in the crash. San Geronimo Valley Road’s posted speed limit is 40 mph.

“During the inspection of the Volkswagen, it appeared that the speedometer was frozen in place and may indicate a pre-impact speed,” the report states.

The group was heading to a sleepover when the tragedy happened, investigators said. Intoxication was ruled out as a factor.

A witness who was in the SUV told investigators that the driver may have swerved to avoid crashing with another car, the report states.

But according to the CHP report, speed was the primary factor and investigators did not find evidence of the witness’ claim. It also notes that the driver had received her driver’s license five months prior to the deadly crash, and her provisional license had limits on ages for passengers.

The CHP report, which recommends criminally prosecuting the driver, was handed off to the DA’s office for review. While prosecutors will determine if any charges are filed, CHP investigators recommended California Penal Code 192 (c)(1).

According to CHP investigators, the driver also violated Vehicle Code 12814.6 b. The code states that during the first 12 months, a licensee may not transport passengers who are under 20 years of age unless accompanied and supervised by a driver who is 25 years of age or older.

The DA’s office declined to comment to KRON4 about the case because it involves minors. So far, the CHP report has not been released publicly by officials because it is still under review.

Victims killed on San Geronimo Valley Road

Sophomore Josalynn “Josy” Osborn, 16

Freshman Olive Koren, 14

Sophomore Sienna Katz, 15

Sophomore Ada Kepley, 15