UPDATE: A horrific crash on Highway 87 in San Jose has tragically claimed the lives of a mother and her one-year-old daughter. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:40 AM on October 3, 2023, involved multiple vehicles and has sparked urgent concerns about roadway safety in the area.
Reports confirm that Ivana Balistreri, 29, and her baby, Lilliana, were killed when their Lexus erupted in flames after being involved in a multi-vehicle pileup. Two Teslas and another vehicle were also part of the collision, with one car reported to have fled the scene, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
The CHP has stated that alcohol and drug impairment do not appear to have contributed to this tragedy. Thankfully, the driver of a Toyota Sienna involved in the crash was unharmed and remained on the scene to assist investigators. However, both the Lexus driver and one Tesla driver sustained undisclosed injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital.
In the aftermath of this devastating event, the family of Balistreri has reached out to the community for support through a GoFundMe page. The page expresses profound grief, stating, “Our hearts were shattered when Ivana Balistreri and her beautiful baby girl, Lilliana, were tragically killed in the Highway 87 accident involving a Tesla.” The family is seeking donations for funeral expenses and legal support, emphasizing the emotional toll this loss has taken.
Local authorities quickly responded to the incident. The San Jose Fire Department reported that while electric vehicle fires can pose challenges, the lithium batteries present did not complicate their firefighting efforts. Battalion Chief Bennett Yendery confirmed to CBS News San Francisco that the fire was extinguished promptly, stating, “Despite the involvement of electric vehicles with lithium batteries, the fire was extinguished within an expected time frame, without additional complications.”
The CHP is actively investigating the crash and is urging witnesses, especially those with any video evidence, to step forward. They can contact the San Jose office at 408-961-0900 to aid in the ongoing inquiry.
This tragic incident has left the community in shock, and many are rallying together to support the grieving family during this incredibly difficult time. As details continue to emerge, the call for increased vehicle safety measures grows louder, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance on the roads.
