Tragic SUV Crash Claims Lives of Olive Koren, Josalynn Osborn, Sienna Katz, and Ada Kepley
A devastating SUV crash in rural West Marin on Friday night has claimed the lives of four teenage girls from Marin County, leaving two others in critical condition. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the tragic details over the weekend, identifying all six individuals involved as students at Archie Williams High School in San Anselmo, aged between 14 and 16. Principal Jacob Gran shared the heartbreaking news in an email to students and their families, revealing the names of the deceased as Olive Koren, Josalynn Osborn, Sienna Katz, and Ada Kepley.
*The Crash*
The crash took place around 7:30 p.m. Friday evening along San Geronimo Valley Road, just south of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. When emergency responders from the California Highway Patrol, Marin County Sheriff’s Office, and Marin County Fire Department arrived on the scene, they discovered a Volkswagen SUV that had veered off the roadway and struck a tree near the shoulder. According to CHP officials, three of the teenage girls were declared dead at the scene, while the fourth succumbed to her injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
*Community Reaction*
The loss of life has sent shockwaves through the community and beyond. Tamalpais Union High School District Superintendent Tara Taupier expressed her grief and solidarity, stating, “This is an incredibly heart-wrenching time for our entire school and broader community. As we await more information, we know the Tam District community will pull together in compassion, care, and support for one another.” The community is rallying together to support the families and loved ones of the victims, with vigils and memorials expected to be held in the coming days.
*Investigation*
As of now, the cause of the accident has not been determined, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The CHP has urged anyone who might have relevant information to come forward and contact their Marin Area office at 415-407-3924. Law enforcement has not released details regarding who was driving the vehicle or the specific factors that may have contributed to the crash.
*Support for the Families*
The Tamalpais Union High School District is coordinating with families and authorities to provide ongoing support to those affected. Grief counselors and support services have been made available to help students and staff cope with the loss. The students were all described as bright, kind, and deeply connected to their peers at Archie Williams High School.
*Broader Conversations*
The tragedy has also sparked broader conversations about teen driving safety, curfews, and supervision. However, the focus remains on supporting the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time. As Captain Amy Newton, CHP Marin Area Commander, stated, “On behalf of the California Highway Patrol, I extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and classmates of the four young students whose lives were tragically lost in this heartbreaking crash. No words can ease the pain of such a devastating loss, and our hearts are with the entire community as they grieve.”
*Legacy of the Victims*
The crash marks one of the most devastating local tragedies in recent memory, particularly due to the ages of the victims and the fact that they were so well known within the school community.
As the investigation continues, many in Marin County are left mourning the lives of four young individuals who had so much ahead of them. Their loss serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of unimaginable sorrow.
