NJ Crash That Killed 4 May Have Been Caused By Medical Episode: Prosecutors

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — An investigation into a car crash that killed four people earlier this year in Morris County was found not to be criminal in nature, according to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.

On April 10, around 3:20 p.m., a 2015 Mercedes-Benz driven by Diane Goetz, 71, of Randolph, suddenly sped up to nearly 100 mph while traveling north on Millbrook Avenue in Randolph.

Goetz drifted into the southbound lane before running a red light on Route 10.

Goetz then slammed into a 2011 Honda CR-V, also hitting a 2019 Dodge Caravan.

The driver of the Caravan, Bertha Castaneda, 67, of Dover, was killed in the impact. Its passenger, Maria Z. Figueroa, 58, of Wharton, died later in the hospital.

The Caravan was also carrying students from PG Chambers in Cedar Knolls. Two students were injured from the crash, including Yexsel Reyes Granados, 4, of Hackettstown, who succumbed to his injuries in a nearby hospital.

Goetz was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office’s “thorough and exhaustive” investigation into the crash found that Goetz was not criminally liable for the accident. Investigators suspect she may have suffered from a medical episode, causing her to accelerate and hit the cars.

“We appreciate the patience of the community while investigators performed their due diligence,” Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said. “I realize the conclusion may not be satisfactory for everyone, given the significant impact of this incident. However, there is no evidence to suggest criminal intent on the part of the at-fault driver. It can be difficult to make sense of such a tragic accident. Those who continue to mourn their loved ones remain in our prayers.”