JACKSON COUNTY, GA (October 14, 2025) — Authorities have confirmed the deaths of eight members of the same Hispanic family — Maribel Ramirez, 42; Justin Ramirez, 16; Andy Ramirez, 14; Natali Ramirez, 11; Evan Ramirez, 3 years and 7 months; Kenia Ramirez, 22; Darwin Ventura, 23, who was three months pregnant; and Kayle Ventura, 4 — in a devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 85 northbound Monday afternoon, just south of Commerce, Georgia. The crash has left the local community in shock and mourning.
According to the Jackson County Coroner’s Office, all eight victims were traveling together in a Dodge minivan when a tanker semi-truck rear-ended the vehicle, reportedly following too closely. The violent impact caused the minivan to erupt into flames, trapping everyone inside. Emergency responders initially reported seven fatalities at the scene, but further examination revealed an eighth victim, who was also pronounced dead.
Horrifying Scene and Community Response
Witnesses described the van being engulfed in flames within seconds, leaving bystanders helpless to intervene. “This is one of the most tragic traffic incidents we’ve seen in recent memory,” a Georgia State Patrol trooper said. “An entire family lost their lives in an instant.”
The crash also caused a chain reaction involving six vehicles, though the minivan sustained the most severe damage. Northbound lanes of I-85 were closed for several hours as firefighters, investigators, and collision reconstruction teams worked to clear debris and examine the wreckage.
Investigation Ongoing
The Georgia State Patrol Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team (SCRT) is leading the investigation. Officials continue to confirm all occupants through records and forensic analysis. At this time, investigators have not disclosed whether speed, distraction, or impairment contributed to the crash, nor have they revealed details about the tanker truck’s cargo.
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have dashcam footage from the area to contact the Georgia State Patrol Post in Athens.
Community in Mourning
The loss of eight members of one family has sent ripples of grief throughout Jackson County and the surrounding areas. Residents and neighbors expressed deep sorrow for the victims, highlighting the profound impact on the community. Local leaders and first responders offered condolences and urged motorists to exercise caution on highways to prevent similar tragedies.
“This is a heartbreaking day for Georgia,” said Franka Young, spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Public Safety. “Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the victims as we continue to work diligently on this investigation.”
Victims:
Maribel Ramirez, 42
Justin Ramirez, 16
Andy Ramirez, 14
Natali Ramirez, 11
Evan Ramirez, 3
Kenia Ramirez, 22
Darwin Ventura, 23 (pregnant)
Kayle Ventura, 4
Location: I-85 Northbound, Mile Marker 147, Jackson County, GA
Incident: Multi-vehicle crash involving tanker truck
Investigation: Active, led by Georgia State Patrol SCRT
This devastating crash serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of highway travel and the importance of maintaining safe distances between vehicles. The community continues to grieve the loss of an entire family cut down in a single tragic moment.
