Tragic Multi-Vehicle Crash on Route 10 in Randolph, NJ, Claims Three Lives, Including Two School Minivan Passengers, and Injures Two Children
RANDOLPH, NJ — April 12, 2025 — Authorities have confirmed that an active investigation is underway following a tragic multi-vehicle crash on Route 10 in Randolph, New Jersey, that left three adults dead and two children injured. The crash, which occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, April 10, 2025, has shocked the local community, prompting officials to offer their condolences while they work to uncover the details surrounding the deadly incident.
Crash Details
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. at the intersection of Route 10 and Millbrook Avenue, involving four vehicles, one of which was a school minivan. According to the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the minivan was occupied by both students and employees. Preliminary reports suggest that the crash was caused by a chain reaction involving multiple vehicles traveling on the busy roadway.
As emergency responders rushed to the scene, they discovered that three adults had tragically lost their lives, while two children were injured and transported to nearby hospitals for medical care. Two adults who were involved in the crash were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Fatalities Identified
The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has confirmed the following victims:
- Bertha Castaneda, 67, of Dover
- Diane Goetz, 71, of Randolph
- Maria Z. Figueroa, 58, of Wharton
Castaneda and Figueroa were traveling in the school minivan for P.G. Chambers School in Cedar Knolls, a school dedicated to serving children with special needs. The tragic loss of these individuals has deeply affected the school community, as well as the broader Randolph and Morris County communities.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the cause of the crash is being handled by the Randolph Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit. Authorities are working diligently to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash and determine whether any factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, or mechanical failure may have played a role.
While the investigation is still ongoing, Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is a horrible tragedy for the Morris County community and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives, and with those whose lives will undoubtedly be impacted by their loss.”
Authorities also urged the public to exercise caution when discussing the incident online, as details surrounding the crash remain sensitive and potentially traumatic for those involved.
Community Response and Support
The loss of these individuals has left the community in mourning, especially within the school that they served. A growing memorial of flowers, candles, and notes of remembrance has begun to form outside P.G. Chambers School, where the victims were known for their dedication to helping students with special needs.
The children who were injured in the crash remain hospitalized, but their conditions have not been disclosed at this time. Authorities are working closely with the families of the victims and injured to provide support and resources during this difficult time.
Call for Witnesses
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash to come forward and assist with the investigation. Those with information are asked to contact the Randolph Township Police Department at 973-989-7000 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit at 973-285-6200.
As the investigation continues, officials have promised to provide additional details as soon as they become available. For now, the Randolph and Morris County communities remain united in their grief, supporting the families affected by this devastating incident.