Two young children remain in medically induced comas after a deadly Deerfield Beach crash that claimed the life of their 4-year-old cousin and an 18-year-old motorcyclist.
The crash happened around 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, in the 4100 block of West Hillsboro Boulevard, according to investigators with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities said a 2017 Nissan Sentra was attempting a U-turn when it was struck on the passenger side by a westbound motorcycle. The collision sent the Nissan into a rollover.
The motorcyclist, identified as 18-year-old Maxwell Patel of Parkland, was pronounced dead at the scene. A 4-year-old girl who was riding in the Nissan was taken to Broward Health Medical Center, where she later died.
The girl was identified by her family as Christine Celine Varella Mejia.
Family gathers for vigil
Family members and friends gathered at a Coconut Creek park to remember Christine and support the children who remain hospitalized.
Christine’s brother, Jake Varela, remembered her as a child who constantly tried to make the people around her smile and laugh.
He said the family wants people to remember the happiness Christine brought to others rather than focus only on the loss.
The two surviving children, ages 7 and 8, are being treated at Broward Health Medical Center. Earlier reports identified both children as being in critical condition, while the family has since said they remain in medically induced comas.
Family members remain hospitalized
The crash involved six people inside the Nissan, including three children. Several family members were taken to hospitals following the collision.
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office said the driver and one child were initially transported to Broward Health North, while other passengers were taken to Broward Health Medical Center. The child later transported by helicopter to Broward Health Medical Center was among those receiving treatment.
Christine’s family said her father was able to escape the overturned vehicle and help other family members after the crash. He has since been released from the hospital, while her mother continues to recover from broken bones.
The family is also seeking financial help for Christine’s funeral expenses and the growing medical costs connected to the crash.
911 calls describe the moments after the collision
Authorities also released 911 calls as the family gathered for the vigil. In the calls, people at the scene could be heard reporting the severity of the crash and asking for emergency assistance.
The recordings provide a glimpse into the confusion immediately following the collision as bystanders tried to respond before emergency crews arrived.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
For Christine’s family, however, the focus has shifted toward remembering a little girl they say brought happiness wherever she went and supporting the two children who are still fighting to recover.
