A horrific fireball crash between an SUV and semi-truck has killed a family of eight, including a newborn baby.
The family from Indiana, were killed in a crash which happened while they were travelling in Mexico on Saturday morning, April 15.
Matehuala firefighters responded to reports of an accident and vehicle fire at 6.30am involving an SUV and semi-truck.
The eight family members who died were identified as dad, Guadalupe Mejia Sandoval, 38, and his children; Jesus Mejia Garcia, 14, and Jocelyn Mejia Garcia, 11. Fernando Garcia, age unknown, Jesus Angeles, 39, Maria Cuevas, 59, Blanca Guzman, 34, her one-month-old son Gabriel Guzman also lost their lives.
A statement from Chief of Police Scott Shoemaker and School Superintendent Dr Matt Rhonda released shortly after the crash, said: "As we learn more about the five Frankfort residents killed in a crash while travelling in Mexico, our condolences to the family
"The tragedy includes the loss of two students in our school system. Jocelyn Mejia Garcia attended Suncrest Elementary and Jesus Mejia Garcia attended Frankfort High School.
"Their father, Guadalupe and relatives, Fernando Garcia and Jesus Angeles, also died in the crash. There may be additional deaths as a result of the crash but we cannot release names at this time."
They went on to say: "Our hearts ache for the family here in the City of Frankfort.
"The Community Schools of Frankfort will have gried counselors available to support friends, teachers, and classmates of Jocelyn and Jesus beginning tomorrow, April 17.
"We will also try to receive more information about the crash from Mexican authorities. We do know that Mexican officials are working with Unted States officials regarding those killed."
Frankfort Police Chief Scott Shoemaker said: "These are huge losses not only for the family, but for the community. From what I am hearing they will do anything for anybody."
He went on to describe how the family was travelling along the interstate when their SUV struck an "overturned semi".
"The Suburban they were travelling in immediately burst into flames and all eight occupants died," said Chief Shoemaker.
The family lived in the city of Frankfort in Clinton County, Indiana. Jocelyn was in the fifth grade at Suncrest Elementary School, with brother Jesus a freshman at Frankfort High School.
Superintendent Doctor Matt Rhoda said of the kids: "They were not only involved in our schools but in our community at large, and I know they had a number of friends at both schools."
"We have lost eight of our family members, friends and Frankfort residents," said Shoemaker.
"Please keep the family in your prayers. Very sad situation. We need to honour their memory and ensure the families get the answers regarding the cause of the crash."
The Learning Network of Clinton County has set up a donation page to help support the families who lost loved ones in the crash.
They are hoping to raise $30,000 for the families of those involved in the crash with their 'Ocho Strong/Frankfort 8' fundraiser.
