A tragic three-vehicle crash on N. Broadway has claimed the life of a Florissant woman, with several others, including children, injured. According to an update from the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, 31-year-old Candice Swearengen was the driver of a Jeep Wrangler involved in the accident that occurred just after 10 PM on March 1. The collision also involved a Mazda 6 and a Chevy Malibu.
An investigation has revealed the driver of the Mazda 6, aged 23, was heading southbound at speeds 10 to 15 MPH above the limit. For reasons still unknown, the Mazda swerved into oncoming traffic and sideswiped the Jeep, which led to it flipping over. Following immediately, the Chevy Malibu then crashed into the Mazda after the initial collision. The shocking fact to note is all the involved adults were not wearing seat belts, while all children were secured at the time of the crash.
Candice Swearengen was transported to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. The incident also left a 5-month-old child in critical but stable condition. The three other juveniles involved were taken to the hospital in stable condition, though it remains unclear if they were in the Jeep Wrangler or the Malibu. Meanwhile, the driver of the Malibu received treatment and is reportedly stable, as is the driver of the Mazda, who, after fleeing the scene, was picked up and taken to the hospital.
The aftermath of the incident elicited a comprehensive response with the Accident Reconstruction Team engaging in the investigation. All juveniles who found themselves caught in the maw of metal and chaos were buckled up securely, contrasting with the adults' oversight of their safety. As the investigation continues, details are being prepared for presentation to the Circuit Attorney’s Office, with the hope that understanding and accountability may emerge from this tragic event.
