Tragic Collision During Pilgrimage in Tamil Nadu
An Australian family’s spiritual pilgrimage to the Velankanni Christian shrine near Karaikal, Tamil Nadu, ended in tragedy on May 21, when their van collided with a bus on a highway. The devastating accident resulted in the deaths of six family members, including Dass Santiago and his five-year-old daughter Natasha.
Details of the Accident and Victims
The family, based in Melbourne, had traveled to India to visit the shrine and to see Dass Santiago’s ailing mother. Santiago, 45, was employed at Nissan Dandenong in Melbourne. Their van was carrying Santiago, his wife Sandra Edward, and their two daughters, Angie and Natasha, when the crash occurred.
The collision tragically claimed the lives of Santiago and Natasha, who was approaching her sixth birthday. Sandra and her older daughter Angie survived but sustained serious injuries.
Current Condition and Medical Efforts
Sandra endured multiple fractures and life-threatening injuries, undergoing two surgeries and continuing to receive intensive medical care. Angie suffered a severe skull injury and remains in a coma after two brain surgeries.
Despite her own injuries, Sandra expressed profound grief over witnessing her husband’s death and the uncertainty surrounding her children’s condition.
Fundraising to Facilitate Medical Evacuation
In response to the medical and logistical challenges, Sandra launched a fundraiser aiming to raise approximately 150,000 AUD. The funds will assist with the specialized medical evacuation of Angie and Sandra back to Australia, as well as support for a memorial service planned on June 14 to honor Santiago and Natasha.
As of June 2, the fundraising campaign garnered nearly 137,000 AUD, reflecting significant support from the community.
Community and Government Support
The family is affiliated with St Kevin’s Catholic Parish in Hampton Park, which offered condolences and prayers for all those affected by the tragedy. The parish publicly expressed sympathy for the families of the deceased and support for the injured.
Simultaneously, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to Sandra, facilitating her medical evacuation and eventual repatriation to Melbourne.
Looking Ahead
Sandra remains resolute, citing her daughter Angie as her motivation to persevere through this profound personal loss and trauma. The ongoing treatment and recovery process will be closely supported by the funds raised and the collaborative efforts of medical teams and government agencies.
