It began on Thursday, September 3rd around 10:30 a.m. when state police responded to a four-vehicle, double-fatal crash on the New York State Thruway in the area of the Junius Ponds Rest Area.
Investigators said at the time that traffic was slowing down for a lane closure in the area when a pickup truck failed to slow down, and crashed into the back of a minivan.
The minivan struck a small passenger vehicle, which slid into a tractor-trailer.
Troopers said Maryella Annal, 11, and Elizabeth Annal, 9, both of Baldwinsville died in the crash. Their mother, Maureen Annal, 50, was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital with ‘very serious’ injuries. The girls’ father, Thomas Annal, 54, was also airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital with serious injuries.
The operator of the pickup truck, identified as Abraham Hara, 73, of Geneva was not injured.
At the time, state police said charges were pending. However, no updates have been provided since the wreck.
A GoFundMe, which was started by family members has raised more than $100,000 to help Tom and Maureen with memorial efforts for their daughters. The monies will also be used to aid in medical expenses that are anticipated in what the fundraier organizer describes as a ‘long road ahead’.
“The funds raised will be given directly to Tom and Maureen,” the organizer said in a post to GoFundMe, updating the more than 1,100 who contributed. “Our family is humbled and thanks you all for your generosity, and the enormous outpouring of prayers and support that we have received from the community. We have been touched by all the sentiments expressed. Your expressions of love and support are a true testament to how this beautiful family has touched all of our lives.”
As of Sunday, Jennifer Annal Bacon, the organizer who put the GoFundMe together, said that the Tom’s condition was improving. He suffered a concussion and rib injuries. Meanwhile, Maureen sustained a spinal cord injury, which will require months of intensive rehabilitation.
“They will be in Rochester for quite some time so your generosity will help with expenses in the upcoming months. Please continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers,” Bacon wrote.
FingerLakes1.com has reached out to the Seneca County District Attorney’s Office, as well as New York State Police for an update on the investigation.
Josh is the president and publisher of FingerLakes1.com. Have a question? Send them to [email protected].