A horrific car accident north of New Haven, Connecticut, took the lives of two children, left the parents injured and left another child in critical condition. The crash occurred at around 2:00 a.m. at Gale Avenue in Meriden.

The family’s vehicle was stopped at a red light when the car, driven by a 29-year-old man, rear-ended the family’s vehicle. The accident led to the death of an 8-year-old boy and his 5-year-old sister. Their 12-year-old half brother sustained critical injuries in the accident as well. The parents were also injured.

Police suspect that the driver of the car was intoxicated and was driving at a very high speed. After the crash, the driver fled the scene and was found at a home nearby. Initially, the police had difficulty identifying him because he carried several identification cards with him. He was charged with reckless driving, evading responsibility and driving without a license. However, more charges are expected to be filed after police obtain a blood sample to check the driver’s blood alcohol content level during the time of the accident. He was held on $1 million bail.

A memorial has been set up at the scene of the accident. Residents placed candles and stuffed animals around a traffic pole just a few feet from the crash site.

The fatal car accident clearly shows how negligent driving has the potential to not only alter another motorist’s life but end it as well. Negligent driving is avoidable if a driver exercises caution while driving. It is also illegal to drive negligently and a negligent driver can be held liable by other motorists in the event of an accident and injuries or fatalities.

An injured New Haven resident may wish to file a claim for compensation to cover physical, emotional, financial and other related damages. In the event of a fatality, the accident victim’s family can file on behalf of the deceased victim.

Source: CTNOW, “Identities Of Two Children Killed In Meriden Crash Released; Driver Arraigned,” Jenna Carlesso and Russell Blair, Nov. 03, 2013