An unfortunate accident indeed, but her surviving son is incarcerated for drugs? Her husband is detained by immigration? I do not believe they should be allowed to leave their respective prisons to attend. It is part of the deterrent of why you should remain being a law abiding citizen to stay out of prison, so you can have a normal life..... and quit messing up others trying to live one.

Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.

Survey says? X X X

What seems to be a sympathetic story written to tug at our emotions only confirms what many suspected to be the case. This story shares a common thread with most of the serious news stories we hear about in Yakima.

The 800LB gorilla is in the room.

I Do Hope That This Woman's Son And Husband are Allowed To Attend The Boys Funeral.In Unfortunate Times Like This I Believe The Family Should Be United To Mourn The Ones They Love.

For Who Ever Wrote This Article,I Dont see Why This Family's Personal Life Should Be Brought Out.I Understand This Article AS Being Negative Towards This Family.You Should of Focused The Article On What Really Mattered,Her Son's Unfortunate Mishap.

For This People Who Left Comments Above Me,Your Comments Are Out Of Place.You Should Have Some Respect For This Family In Their Time Of Grief.

Para La familia Abundiz"Mi Mas Sentido Pesame"
Que Dios Los Cuide Y Los Bendiga Ey Les De Fuersa Para Seguir adelante Con Sus Vidas.

Sorry, I don't buy it. She hasn't lost 3 sons, but all 5, (the last two to drugs and crime). Perhaps the driver was into them as well, considering his willful disregard for the traffic laws and dumb choice to pass in the "No Passing Zone", and in the process, endangered himself and others, killing himself and his two brothers, and injuring 4 other innocent people. I STILL don't know how they managed to get 6 people in a 4 passenger Jeep. No sympathy from me here because these people are NOT victims, in my opinion. Everything wrong with this family has been done by their own dumb choices, and they are suffering the consequences.

Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should the rest of the family be given special consideration and released. The Father made a conscious choice to come here illegally - Melissa doesn't say what the citizenship status of the mother is, but knowing ICE and their family policy, she may also be here illegally. Besides, she has other family here to help anyway.


To me, this family is the "Poster Family" of what is wrong with illegal immigration and why we should never have left our borders so open. This story is the epitome of our primary concerns involving illegals and what they bring to the table here, besides cheap labor for greedy employers.

I wish her a speedy recovery and perhaps she and her other two sons can join the rest of her family as they travel back to Mexico. THAT is an opportunity to keep the family together.

I completely agree with all of the previous posters, except for Ms.bethancurt. I do feel awful for the loss of three boys. However, this family's problems have all been brought on by their OWN bad choices, (bad driving, inattention on the road, having SIX passengers in a 4-door Jeep that only has FIVE seatbelts, and only utilizing TWO of those seatbelts, immigration law violations, and drug offenses). The two men committed crimes and should STAY incarcerated. The Leach family (the innocent family who were involved in this incident) have been left to pick up the pieces alone, while all the focus is on the Abundiz family. Has anyone set up a fund to help the Leach family? They are facing a long and difficult emotional, physical and financial recovery.

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Oh, and WHEN is the Herald going to write a human interest story on the other family (the Leach family) that were out innocently enjoying a Sunday afternoon family outing, and were blindsided by the Abundiz's Jeep, and have had their lives changed forever? If anyone is deserving of sympathy, it's the Leach family.

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Are you all serious? This story is a shameless plea for sympathy? Really, folks, read the story again and look at all the details tossed your way and look at ya'll's reactions: This is red meat thrown to the wolves.

My best wishes to Rosa Abundiz in this difficult time.

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Wow it amazes me how cruel and heartless you people are. Someone has just lost her 3 babies and all you people can focus on is the negative. YOU obviously have never lost a child!! WHO gives a crap how many people where in the car and who gives a crap if they might or might be here illegal… they are human beings with hearts and feelings!! If you have nothing nice to say then keep your prejudice feelings to your dam self!!

For those of you with hearts, please help this family in their time of need! Thank you and GOD Bless. Pay it Forward, remember!!

Sympathy yes (regarding the loss of loved ones)... insanity no (regarding the release of the father and son). Seems to me that this family's troubles started a long time ago and the path in which it chose as a whole has come to fruition.

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This is a very sad story all the way around. What a mess! Bad choices, bad decisions, horrible outcome - it is really unfortunate when people like the Leach family are victimized through no fault of their own. I understand that Ms. Abundiz is grief stricken at her loss, but I am saddened that she does not seem to be able to see anything outside of herself and her needs - for instance, she indicates no remorse for the actions of her family and the infliction of harm on the Leach family - that, to me, is the greatest tragedy of all. She will have to bury her family with what support she has because her husband and son made their choices and the consequence is that they will not be here to help. That's their burden and no one elses.

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Who is paying for the Abundiz's medical bills? With the posted history of the family it's a fair chance that you all know the answer.

Phoenix77 said:

"WHO gives a crap how many people where in the car "

Uh, it's VERY relevant how many people were in the vehicle. There were SIX people in a vehicle that only had FOUR OR FIVE SEATBELTS. If the vehicle wasn't overloaded, and every occupant had been wearing a seat belt, they MAY NOT HAVE DIED. How hard is that to understand?

FarmerJarhead said:

"Who is paying for the Abundiz's medical bills? With the posted history of the family it's a fair chance that you all know the answer. "

Which is why I will NOT be donating any money to their fund. The Leach family is not getting any government handouts - they are the ones that need the most help. The Leach parents were pretty seriously injured (the pictures of their injuries are absolutely horrifice, but it could definitely have been worse), and due to other issues, they are in a pretty bad way financially. Someone needs to set up a fund for them (I would, but live out of state - I would be more than happy to send a donation, however).

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My sincerest condolences to the Abundiz family. I agree with Ms. Bethancurt. It is true that the family's personal life is of no significance and is irrelvant to this tragedy. Everyone who wrote nothing but negative comments are completely out of line. You need to respect the family and have a heart.

It makes me wonder what the Abundiz's insurance policy will cover?

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Joice,
You're assuming she even had insurance.

Wow!I can't believe what I am hearing. Do you really believe this family has caused all the problems we are having in Yakima? That only people from "Mexico" have commited crimes? We have all different shades and colors of people causing awful crimes. What does that say about how you were raised? All I hear is hate and criticism, as if you are able to pass judgement on all that have done wrong. These are someone's children. Watch what you say........because sometimes it comes back and bites us in our @#$%!!!! Regardless of the fact that he was not careful and was driving recklessly.....he paid the price with his life.
And to all of you have nothing good to say.....why say it at all? You must be very unhappy in your life. God bless both families.

I'm very happy in my life, Gina. Which is why I'm sick of hearing "poor me" stories from people who screw their own lives up. I take responsibility for my choices, and deal with the results. Unfortunately, not everyone does.

Maybe the Herald should hold a fund raiser for border enforcement.

Even if it was a white family that had a dad in jail and a son in jail for drugs. I would not feel sorry.

You sleep in the bed you made.

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As I was sitting here writing what almost turned into a novel in defense of this family…MY FAMILY…I thought to myself … WHY AM I WASTING MY TIME ON THESE NEGATIVE, IGNORANT CLOSED MINDED RACIST, WHO WILL NEVER CHANGE!! Who do you people think you are passing judgment?? You know nothing about this family! I feel sorry for all of you and pray that you never ever have to endure the pain this mother (my aunt) is going through right now! I’m a mother of 4 and I cannot even imagine losing anyone of my babies and to lose 3 all at once.
I would like to say though, for the record, this entire family is here legally and the boys were all Americans, just like you!!

Guess some things will never change...

If the whole family is here legally, then WHY is the Dad in jail on immigration-related charges? And as for your 'racist' accusations, I AM Hispanic, (as well as Japanese and Irish/Caucasian). I was born in a Spanish-speaking country, but my family emigrated here LEGALLY, and we learned ENGLISH before we came here and we follow the rules of the country we have chosen as our home. I don't care what race/color/nationality someone is, a CRIMINAL is still a CRIMINAL, and POOR CHOICES are still POOR CHOICES!

"Guess some things will never change..."

Let's hope they do, Phoenix. Let's hope that others will learn from the mistakes and tragedy depicted here. IN my opinion, the lessons started with this family's first experience with the law - but the example apparently didn't take hold. Now, they are grieving with the consequences. Every single unfortunate incident stated in this story happened because of poor choices.

Some of you wonder why the TRUE victims are hardly mentioned here, the family in the other car. So do I.

Why did the Herald not mention that Roman Abundiz is an Air Force veteran? http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-9603436.html I'm not sure WHY he is no longer in the militsry (did his enlistment expire, or did he get kicked out?) but thought it was worth recognizing his service.

Well I guess my comment of "not being happy" really hit the truth, if you find the need to defend it. So we will leave it at that. None of us have the right to pass judgement. You are right we all have to take responsiblity for our actions.....what does that have to do with the death of a women's three children? But I will say this there is not point in wasting time on closed minded people.
I bet your one of those people that complains about all the crime and looking for who to blame but sits at home and does NOTHING about it!!!!!!! I agree with everything Pheonix77 had to say.....I would never wish this upon anyone. We will all have to stand before our creator one day.......I strongly believe we will be judged as we have judged others.

The youngest Abundiz boy, Fernando, was in my fifth grade classroom this year. He was a sweet, thoughtful child who wanted what all children want, to be accepted and to be successful. I'll always remember his shy smile, his cool hair (his mom is a hairdresser and it showed), and his enthusiasm for life. It hurts to read some of the negative comments about this family that I know and care about. From my personal experience with them, I can say that it was quite obvious that they loved Fernando and wanted him to be successful in school and in life. Anytime his mother or brothers came into the classroom, they wanted to know how he was doing, what he could work on, and how they could help him. I'm having a hard time believing that there are folks out there who actually think this family deserved what happened to them. No family deserves this! My heart goes out to the Abundiz family because I know they've lost three wonderful boys.

"I bet your one of those people that complains about all the crime and looking for who to blame but sits at home and does NOTHING about it!!!!!!!"

You must be projecting. You have NO idea what line of work I am in, but if you knew, you'd realize how stupid your statement is. You must be very unhappy if you have nothing better to do than get on this website and sling insults and call others names. I feel sorry for you.

"I strongly believe we will be judged as we have judged others. "

If you believe that, then how do you explain your behavior on this website? You are full of judgment. Must be nice to be so perfect.

Wow. I had no idea we had so many perfect people in Yakima so fit to pass judgement. No sympathy whatsoever...You should all be ashamed. If any of your children passed away, I would NEVER say something negative out of respect to the passing of a loved member, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the incident. I'm not advocating for this woman. Just saying some of you need to learn to respect.

As for the Leach family, I feel very bad for them. Wrong place at the wrong time. It's just the way it is. It's not like the the person driving the Jeep planned to hit them head on. Very sad story.

Well, I never claimed to be perfect, nor did I claim to live in Yakima. And you are pretty sure of your own perfection, it seems. Hi, pot - meet kettle.

Hi Kelly, you don't have to claim it. Actions speak louder than words, and the way you express yourself would make me think you're perfect. But c'mon now, I know you're not perfect. Nobody is, you just act like you are.

BTW, do you have any children?

I bet she doesnt!!

Nice to see that censorship is still alive and well at the Yakima Herald Republic. Remember folks, The YHR has their agenda for Comprehensive Immigration Reform, which is code for Amnesty...or "Shamnesty." The YHR is all about One World-One Valley...however they forget to add One Language.

By the number of comments to this very story, it is pretty easy to tell that the Citizens of Yakima have more than had their fill with illegal immigrants and the social problems they and their disgusting employers dump in our lamps, plus the damage they do to the environment because of over-population.

All I will say to you KellyMT is......you are so wrong about me. But I will end this by saying......"god bless you"

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Uh, actually, I do have kids, that I am raising to avoid drugs and other illegal activities, and to be productive citizens of our community. They are also being taught motor vehicle safety, and proper driving skills. Thanks once again for passing judgment and showing your hypocrisy, those of you who claim to be above it (Phoenix, Legend and gina).

A couple of you also might benefit from a class in reading comprehension, because I've said SEVERAL times that I do have sympathy for the Abundiz family, and this accident was AWFUL, and I'm very, VERY sorry for the loss of these 3 boys. But as far as her begging for her two jailbirds to be released, they made their OWN choices and now must pay the piper. And I've also stated at least twice that I'm not perfect. Put away your emotion and read the comments for what they are, and not what you think they are.

And just to clarify, "Kelly" can be a female OR a male name, Phoenix.

Yes, one can be law abiding, carry car insurance and then get into an accident with another, only to find out they are not insured at all. Yes, I grew up in the Yakima Valley and have been involved with uninsured motorist. It was I that bore the brunt of someone's mistake and paid the cost associated with it and not so much as an attempt on the other party to pay for the damages.

So what is being done to help the Leach family, since they only had one income, and now that person cannot work due to the injuries from the accident. What about the long recovery for both the parents and having to care for three small children as well. How about the cost of trying to replace a vehicle that they depended on for transportation. What about them trying to keep up with their mortgage payments, let along keeping the kids fed.

Come on people, both parties in this accident are affected in different ways. So how about helping both parties with their own needs.

Why not split any monies that are raised between both families. I'm sure they both need the help.

I can't even read anymore of this crap. You don't know what your talking about and I doubt if you we're there. If you was you would shut you mouth. Keep your comments to your self. There are family members readying this and so what if one son had drugs. I'm a flowerchild so big deal!! There was no drinking and they avoided hitting a car. I seemed to me that the vehicle pulling the boat crossed the line. I sat with them to and they we're very lucky. Please stop judging this family. The parents have been married 25 years and has seen more than their share of pain. so stop it already. It was just a family day trip for this mother and her sons and the driver is a newly wed and his wife is so beautiful and had to be told her husband was dead. If any of fyou would of watched all this going on you would be ashamed of your self. Gee I didn't know there we're so many perfect people out there. Must be hard being god. Say what you want, I'm not getting on here again. I have what is left of this family and we are helping each other. Better hug your kids today. they may be gone tomorrow in a blink of the eye.

Just a reminder - there are SIX PEOPLE in Kennewick who were badly injured in this accident. Their injuries are absolutely horrific. Why is no one speaking out for them? Where is the story about the Leach family? Why are they being ignored?

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In typical fashion the "Racism" card has been pulled out again by the sympathizers. This has nothing to do with race, but everything to do with responsibility and choices. The facts are: 1. The Victims: A family returning from summer activities is hit by a Jeep Wrangler, that was filled beyond it's safety belt capacity, when it illegally crossed the center trying to pass another car. 2. 3 of the occupants of the Jeep were killed and 3 injured(including the mother who was supposed to be the responsible adult in the vehicle) and 4 injured in the victim's vehicle. 3. The YHR has made a big point to give the history of the family that caused the accident: Father is illegal and incarcerated in Texas, 1 brother is incarcerated on drug charges, 1 brother is dead from a drug related incident, and now 3 are dead because of the illegal choices that THEY made. What has this family done to warrant sympathy? Is it a tragedy, yes, but it was preventable. The only ones that warrant sympathy are the victims, the Leach family.

In typical fashion the "Racism" card has been pulled out again by the sympathizers. This has nothing to do with race, but everything to do with responsibility and choices. The facts are: 1. The Victims: A family returning from summer activities is hit by a Jeep Wrangler, that was filled beyond it's safety belt capacity, when it illegally crossed the center trying to pass another car. 2. 3 of the occupants of the Jeep were killed and 3 injured(including the mother who was supposed to be the responsible adult in the vehicle) and 4 injured in the victim's vehicle. 3. The YHR has made a big point to give the history of the family that caused the accident: Father is illegal and incarcerated in Texas, 1 brother is incarcerated on drug charges, 1 brother is dead from a drug related incident, and now 3 are dead because of the illegal choices that THEY made. What has this family done to warrant sympathy? Is it a tragedy, yes, but it was preventable. The only ones that warrant sympathy are the victims, the Leach family.

ilove2snorkel said:

" I seemed to me that the vehicle pulling the boat crossed the line. "

Well, you obviously weren't there, because that is ABSOLUTELY NOT TRUE. The Leach family vehicle was following all traffic laws and driving in the proper lane, and the Abundiz vehicle swerved hard into their lane and hit them head-on. The Abundiz family admits this, the Leach family admits this, and law enforcement reports corroborate with the story. Please educate yourself before you make libelous comments about an innocent family that is hurting because someone tried to either pass a car, or avoid hitting a car that they were following too closely.

Wow, yak4life - real classy. The Bible says "judge not lest ye be judged," but I guess that doesn't apply to you? And you think we should "go to hell" for being "worthless human beings" because we are against ILLEGAL immigration? Wow. Real nice. Too bad my family took all that time to LEGALLY emigrate - who knew we'd "go to hell" for doing things the right way?

FarmerJarhead - you and I think along the same lines. Glad to see other rational adults here. Who knew that we were such 'racists' for speaking out against ILLEGAL immigration and stupidity? Go figure.

Just my little piece of two cents on this story: First, I want to give my condolences to both families here. This is a very unfortunate accident. As for the people on here commenting incredible nasty things about the family and/or to each other, that isn’t what this forum is for. As for the Abundiz family and friends, I am sorry for your loss, but the mother can’t honestly expect her husband and son to attend the services, can she? Does she want her husband and son there in jail attire and shackles? That seems so disrespectful to me. And if someone does, unfortunately, approve the request, who does she expect will pay for this? The tax payers? Her husband is in Texas, so, will it be the Texas tax payers who pay for him to be sent here? Or us? There are men serving in the military, they are protecting our country, and they are not allowed to come home for family services, why should we allow, and pay for, men who have committed crimes to come home for family services? I’m sorry, it just doesn’t make sense to me.

Either way, though it is a sad situation for the mother here, and my heart goes out to her.

Great post, TLG421. I hadn't thought of that, but you are correct - there are law-abiding men AND women defending our country overseas that don't get to come home for funerals, birthdays, weddings or births. If they aren't afforded that privilege, then how can we justify sending convicts home on the taxpayer dime?

Good point TLG421 on our soldiers not being able to come home for family services, and who will pay for these things if their asking for donations for the funeral. Also what nerve does the YH and Melissa Sanchez have writing this story when there are other victims who we're not at fault at all. Wheres their story and how are they dealing with things. Obvioulsy this is a tragic story but it depends on how you write and read it. The headline says. I need my husband and son here. Then you read why they cant be there and you cant feel sorry for them when this seems to be a problem family.

ilove2snorkel said:

"There was no drinking and they avoided hitting a car."

Um, they did? Then who hit the Leach family's Expedition head-on? Maybe you'd better check your facts - the Abundiz's Jeep crossed the center line and hit the Leach family.

Sorry Kelly, men AND women, I was actually more thinking about birth than I was anything else, which is why I said men, but you're right, men and women.

As I read through these posts reflecting as a mother of children myself I couldn't believe some of the heartless comments that were being made about the Abundiz family. This was a horrible accident that unfortunately affected many people. Fernando will be missed... his smile, his laugh. After watching him the last two years at the school that I work at it breaks my heart to know that he is gone. His family wanted the best for him. Mom worked very hard raising her kids but those of us that have kids know how hard that is with all of the bad influences around today. Nobody is perfect we all make mistakes unfortunately for this family those mistakes ended in tragedy. Don't make this tragedy more by throwing the race and immigration card out there!

I can't imagine losing one child let alone 3 in one day, I honestly don't know if I could handle it, but I do know I would need my husband and surviving child.
The article was on the mother and how she is doing, I for one want to know and I am hoping they will show pictures of these handsome young men that I hear about that sadly lost their lives as I do not know these people, but have heard nice things about them.
Thank you to those who take the time to write worth while comments.
To KellyMT, if you have not already you can conact or read the Tri-city herald online - which I understand is where the Leach family is from, I would suggest asking them what is being done for the Leach family and what if anything you could do to help.
Nothing makes a person humble faster than having a their words come back to haunt them.
My prayers to the Abundiz and the Leach families.
@->--

American, Mexican, illegal or legal. None of it matters when it comes to people and stupid decisions. My family is from Mexico and i am not ashamed to say i am very proud of it. My parents worked very hard to give us good lives and none of my siblings or myself ended up in Jail or gangs. All have middle class lives and pay our taxes like most of you. (i say most because so called Americans hussle the system as well)
If i was the Leach family i would be furious, my heart goes out to the Abundiz family but it is evident something went wrong with that family. Parental involvement and learning to own up to your resposibilities and mistakes is what makes good people. Dont get me wrong and am no Republican or Right Winger cause i think they have more ideals than actualities. But i do know right from wrong and stand for injustice.

excuse me I meant stand against injustice.

KellyMT brings a refreshing voice of common sense to this discussion.

I'm sure the Catholic Church will take care of this lady and her family as they do with gang bangers when they die. You have to wonder why Vatican City doesn't have a crime problem or all these other problems brought about by illegal aliens.

Oh now its a Catholic thing?? your ignorance baffles me lobo

topp1993,
He was obviously referencing the catholic church's history of harboring criminal illegal aliens such as Elvira Arellano.

I like to think they view people as human beings, and leave the judgement to god.

And yes are there bad Catholics, of course. Just like bad Protestants, Mormans, Babtists, Budhists, Muslums and Athiests. Heck i am Catholic and i have met some catholic priests that i can't stand. I dont say oh that religion is terrible, I say that guy is a jerk.

Anybody who judges people based on Religion, is a fool. Open your mind and your heart, theres a whole world out there that you have yet to see. Respect our differences and dont form opinions of many based on the actions of a few.

Is there an address where we can send contributions to help the Leach family get back on their feet?

topp,
what are you babbling about?

How could you all be so heartless, you were not there you didn't see how horrific the scene was. My family and myself was there trying to help. I can see it is easy to judge being that you all have no skeletons in your closet. All of your family members are free of mistakes. How dear you say those things about a mother that as lost so much. She lost three of her sons in one day. Regardless of that they might have done in there lives right or wrong, they are still her family the ones she gave birth to and the ones she watched die right in front of her. All of you must be a better person then I, because I do hope she will be able to be comforted by what little family she has left in such a time of need. Even more horrible of me I hope no one else has to endure anything like that. My family and myself will continue to pray for what she, Romans wife, our family and everyone else there that was kind and brave enough to help, saw out there that day.
Bless you all.

I realize that the immigration issue is a big deal right now, but this is not the time for it. Everyone in their family where here legally. There are other reasons for the dad being deported.

The first without sin cast the firsr stone.

If you don't want to donate than don't, but don't presume to judge what you have only read about in the paper.

My prayers go out to both families who were hurt in the accident.

At some point people need to take responsibility for their own lives--and the rest of us need to stop making excuses for them when they screw up. The real tragedy occured to the folks in the Ford Expedition.

I have gone to school here grew up here started a family here and Yakima is worse than ever. I am class of 2006 gratuated from IKE. People think that this stuff is new. Reality check, it has been here for ever, now its just out of control. Gangs, Violence...WOW! Yes this is terrible the death of her 3 sons.And our heart and prayers go out to them. But to release her husband and son that is out of the question. GOD puts task in front of you that he knows you can face, he never puts more than you can handle on your plate. And me beeing hispanic and all these people beeing so racist its unbelievable. I was very fortunate and came from a good home. I know wrong from right. I know that if i choose to get myself in bad things my family is not going to support me. They are going to close their doors. And I think that that is what all the parents of Gang members should do. or they should enlist them all into the military send them over sees and give them all M-16 and go for it let them show there TRUE pride. Gangs were very tempting when i was growing up in school. Now they are more powerful than ever. These kind of people (should be classified as their own race) are everywhere, now there getting stupider than before, shooting at someone for wearing the wrong color. Its amazing all the bull @#$% they do. You know what i would like I would like the police to release pictures of all these gang members by name. They like tagging and want to be known Lets do it. Stupid as names Grumpy, Shorty wow. I would love to know who they are so they can come repaint my garage.

Does Melissa Sanchez ever cover stories about the poor white man, or the poor black man, or the poor filipino man, or the poor native american, or the poor..............

"This is life, not heaven. You don't have to be perfect."

A tragedy all around. Regardless of poor choices, a mother needs her children. This will be a loss almost too great for her to bear. Back off and have some sympathy. I believe the proper comments here should be "I'm sorry for your loss". Save the politics for another article.

What a bunch of racist cowards. I feel for the mother of the deceased children. I can not even imagine waking up to the idea that they were gone. I can not believe that there are so many heartless people. How many of you have children? How would you feel? Put yourself in her shoes. Maybe she had car insurance..thought about that? Illegal or not..they can obtain car insurance and more than likely do or did have.

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unbiased, thanks for adding that info to the story. Makes the picture all the more clear, and I agree with everything you posted. Lobo, thanks for the compliment about my common sense - I try. :) And GSierra, you raise some good points, and I agree with most everything you said, but I have to disagree with the forced enlistment of gang members. We don't want people in the military that don't want to join. I don't want to go back to Iraq (have been twice already, and going again soon), and have to depend on someone to watch my back who doesn't want to be there.

I agree KellyMT why would you want gangsters in the military when they cant even kill another gang member wearing a bright red or blue target walking 20 ft away from them, let alone shooting at some terroist hiding in the bushes 100 yards away.

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Shame on you people and especially SHAME ON YOU! Melissa Sanchez. I'm sure when the Abundiz family was talking to you about this horrific tragedy they didn't know you were going to slam their family. Yakima has enough racism and you just had to add to it! Their history has nothing to do with this accident. How many of us have gotten into accidents for whatever reason and that doesn't make us criminals. I'm positive he did not intend to hit another car, yet was trying to NOT hit one! You do not know the circumstances. I feel so bad for this Mom, and couldn't imagine losing my children like this! Of course she wants her husband and son here to support her. I truly can't believe what a bunch of heartless people you are! Shame on You!

Wow, "nowonder" - what a fine Christian example you are putting forth with your post. Just remember that curses come
home to roost, so what you just wished on me will come back to you tenfold. And it would help if you knew who you were talking to - in my 12 years of military service and my 32 years on this earth, I've been through more tragedies than most people see in an entire lifetime. Hope you feel better now that you have wished publicly for horrible things to happen to me. You talk of hypocrites - you only have to look in a mirror.

Hey Kelly, you and I don't see eye to eye on everything, but I gotta thank you for your service to our nation. Two times in Iraq and about to make it three? Wow. I don't really like Hannity, but I'll use one of his phrases when it comes to you: you're a great American. Thanks

Mrs. Abundiz needs to go and be with her husband

i would like to send my blessing to mrs abundiz and her family and i am sorry for her losses. i am the driver of the expedition in the accident and i must say any of us who are alive are so very lucky. there is nothing wrong with her desire to helped and be with her husband and son. she is only human and has feeling just like the rest of us. i would not argue her getting help from her family. doesnt mean they get off whatever they might have done wrong but at least they can make a difference for a moment in something irreversible.

Compassion and forgiveness. A lesson for all of us.

Leachz, you're a better person than a lot of us. Never would I have imagined such words of compassion from you. Best wishes to you and your family.

Leachz: I am completely saddened by the tragedy. I pray you and everyone in the accident finds peace. I know this family and wish them well. May god bless everyone.

Leachz
Hello I’m cousins to the Abundiz family. I would like to know how your family is doing? How are the babies? I have a 3 and 4 year old and I can’t imagine being in such a horrifying accident with them or anyone of my loved ones. We have been praying for you and your family and hope that everyone is ok. No one will ever know what was going through Roman (my cousins) mind in that very second that took their lives but know this... he was a good person, not a gang member (like some of these awful people are accusing him off) He was a handsome young man that was just recently married a few years ago to his beautiful wife Yesenia. They had no children because they were waiting for the right time to bring a child into this world. My Tia Rosa is a great person and a great mother, she loved her boys and anyone who knows her knows what an incredible person she is. She works 2 jobs to support her boys and to keep a roof over there head. (They have a beautiful custom home in Yakima that both my aunt and uncle worked really hard for) Unfortunately my uncle got caught up in something and was well, at the wrong place and the wrong time. He’s serving 2 years in a low risk prison in Texas. Hopefully he will be out in less time for good behavior. We are all praying that he will be released so that he can be here by my aunt side to bury their babies. They need each other right now more than anything. They are both happily married and have been together for over 25 years. Anyway, I'm telling you this because I don’t want you to believe any of this nonsense these “perfect” people are writing.

Thank you for your words, you have no idea how much they mean to us. We will continue praying for you and your family!

Abundiz Family

Thank you for writing that, leachz, and bless you and your family.

This is Casey Leach, my husband was the driver of the Expedition.

I have heard through the grapevine that the Abundiz Family has been wondering how we are doing. We are ok. We have all been released from the hospital, but it will be a long road to recovery for us. Thank God, all 3 of my children walked away with hardly a scratch. I count my blessings each and every time I look into their beautiful eyes. Emotionally, the older two seem to be ok for now, but the baby is still having some issues. It took her a while to warm back up to me, and is slowly regaining her trust in being in my arms. Physically, we will heal. Emotionally, it is hard to say.

I am going through a rollercoaster of mixed emotions at the moment, but I would really like to take this moment to send my condolences to the Abundiz Family. No mother should have to experience the loss of a child, let alone several. I am so deeply, terribly sorry for your losses. I hope you have enough love and support to get you through this heartbreaking and emotional time in your lives.

And I would also like to thank everybody for their continued support of us, and for all the prayers and well wishes. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

my family is doing ok. we did not suffer any great losses but mostly emotional trauma and stresses of being disabled. i had my 3 kids in the expedition, age 2,4,7. they were harnessed properly in the car seats as my wife is a car seat tech who trains people to properly use them. my 2 year old was seated in the middle row, passenger side in a rear facing britax marathon. rear facing is key. in a head on the seat takes the force of the crash and not the neck. she only suffered minor seat belt strap bruises on the hips. my 4 year old was in the middle seat in the middle row in a britax marathon, only she was forard facing. she was 5 point harnessed properly in her seat and only substained heavy seat belt burns on both shoulders. my 7 year old was in the third row driver side. she had a graco high back turbo booster. she was lucky to be sitting up straight in position in her seat as her mother preached to her. she only substained one heavy seat belt burn. lucky the boat didnt go through her side. my wife had big black bruises all over her body and the seat belt had cut around her stomach. she was behind me in the middle row next to my 4 year old. my wifes brother was in the front passenger seat. he broke his wrist pretty bad. as for me, i had a 1 1/2 inch split around my left ankle and lost lots of blood, my feemer bone in my right thigh snapped to so i had a rod stuck in my leg. i wont be walking for at least 2 months. i thank ford for designing a great engine compartment. nothing came through the fire wall amazingly. front was as flat as can be. i think the way i loaded my truck helped us in the accident. my wife has taught to load any solid that can moved i a restrained way and leave soft stuff out. we had all pillows, blankets, sleeping bags and clothing in the truck with the exception of some foods in the expedition. no one got clubbed by projectiles. i hope people can take this info and help give them a better chance in a freak accident. i thank all the people who worked so hard in the heat to save us all. a tremendous effort in a horrific situation.

one more thing, when you see emergency vehicles, please stay away from them. my wife and i were in ambulance just leaving the scene in pain, when suddenly the driver slammed the brakes. everyone helping us including the boards we were on slammed to the front of the ambulance. i hurt so bad. the ambulance had almost got onto a head on collision with a impatient driver waiting. just to think making through such a accident then being immediately in another. ouch. be careful. please!

I am so glad to hear that all of you are ok. This whole incident really hits home with me. I have a two week old baby and I worry so much about her being properly harnessed when we take her to the check-ups, and this only makes me realize how truly important it is to use a seat belt. I will be praying for your family and the Abundiz family.

Legend, please find a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician in your area. They will check to make sure your daughters seat is installed properly, and will make sure she is restrained properly in the seat. And they will make sure you know how to do it. It is SO important.

Memorial's Community Education Center will check your car seat for free. The phone number is 509-575-8484.

I hope a tragedy like this won't happen to all these judgemental people, in order for them to open their eyes. Dare i say, you might need it. We live in a world where drugs are everywhere, where immigrants are our neighbors, where blacks and whites can eat in the same diner. Did we forget all that? Did we forget how to be noble and have respect for the life of other, REGARDLESS of how they chose to live it.

No ones perfect so don't act like you are. We all have to pay for our wrong doings, let's just hope all you never have to suffer worse than this mother did. May God bless you w/ a kind and warm heart, you need it. "...before you start pointing fingers, make sure your hands are clean" May God bless both families,RIP Abundiz boys, may God bless you too regardless of who you were.

Thanks for the phone number TLG. We already called them.

It kills me to read most of these comments. Obviously all of those who have such awful things to say have never lost a loved one or even knew/know anyone in that car!
Fernando 11; Raul 15 and Roman 24, does this not move any of you! It wasn't their fault their dad is in prison and that doesn't make them bad people. That family was already going through a lot not having their father and brother there; and Roman was a person with a great heart! He was a humble being that would lend you a hand if he could, no matter who you were. He loved his family and his wife, Yessy. He took care of his little bothers like if they were his own children. He was 24 and instead of wanting to “hang out with the guys” he rather spent time with his family and wife.
Rosa needs her son and husband there! She already lost a son in the past and that was hard enough...she shouldn't have to face this by herself...the remainder of her family needs to be granted permission to go see their brothers/Sons for one last time, they are not a threat or dangerous, why does it have to be so difficult?
You don’t even have a clue of all the pain they are going through and all you can do is talk ****. This is ridiculous if you never knew these people why do you even have anything to say? Go take care of your own problems, family, kids, husbands, wife....
Don't blame anyone because only they know what happened last Sunday in that car. Either way, who are we to blame or judge anyone! We have all done mistakes; none of us are perfect or even close. We are all guilty of driving recklessly at some time in our lives; it just wasn’t our time.
And if you think I might be understanding because I have never lost anyone close to me due to reckless driving, you’re wrong.
Rosa y Yessy I’m so sorry and I wish I could be there right now. I love you both. Amiga I am sad because we will miss them so much, but I am so thankful we still have you ladies in our lives.
I thank God for giving me the chance to get to know all three of them and I have a lot of good memories I will keep with me forever.
Now I just pray God will give Rosa, Oscar, Eduardo and Yessy the strength to bare with the pain and Roman, Raul and Fernando the way to a better place next to their older brother.

Vani

leachz is a bigger person than most after all he and his family have been through. This family sounds very responsible and did everything right from packing their car to properly securing their children. The difference of being deceased or being released from the hospital after a few days is obvious. I'd rather have a seat belt burn. I assume the Leach family has insurance too. I wonder if the Leach family will maintain this level of compassion as the process server is walking away from them.

LOBO, What do you mean by "Process Server" walking away from the Leaches? Besides I am sure that their insurance company will defend them should they be served.

Seems to me that it would be the other way, that there is going to be a process server on the Abundiz Family, as the driver of the jeep crossed the line and caused this horrific accident.

So where is the compasion for the Leach family and their uncomiong financial hardship when he states that he won't be walking for 2 months, let alone know when he can go back to work.

Come on people, both families are looking at financial hardship in the coming months if not year.

So if you give to help, give to both parties.

YakamaGuy wrote: "Seems to me that it would be the other way, that there is going to be a process server on the Abundiz Family, as the driver of the jeep crossed the line and caused this horrific accident."

To predict how insurance companies will respond to an accident can be quite frustrating for those involved and their extended families. Two years ago my son and his wife were involved in an accident where they were stationary at a signal's red light and a driver making a left turn plowed into the front left corner of their vehicle. Fortunately everyone in their SUV were wearing seat belts and the air bags deployed as they were supposed to. They were legally stopped behind the crosswalk lines by about three feet but the insurance companies haggled over "responsibility percentages" and wanted my son's company to assume 30% of the liability. The shocker was that his company was willing to accept this percentage! My wife threatened legal proceedings against my son's insurance company and they quickly backed off. Amazing!

YakamaGuy:

I have read several of your comments on here, and I am humbled by your thoughtfulness and compassion toward our family during this difficult time. I just want to say thank you.

leachz wrote: "i would not argue her getting help from her family. doesnt mean they get off whatever they might have done wrong but at least they can make a difference for a moment in something irreversible."

I applaud your thoughtfulness and character... your comments and your wife's comments on this forum have persuaded me to change my mind on the single issue regarding the temporary release of the father and son in order to attend to family matters at this time of magnified grief and loss.

leachz and cleach,

I just wanted to let you know that you both have made a huge impression on me. I sat in your SUV and held your girls while at the scene of the accident. My husband is and EMT and was helping the Jeep passengers, and I knew there was nothing I could do there. But I wanted to help somehow. I tried to keep the girls calm. They were scared of course, but trying to be brave. (They're very sweet little girls.)

I was so impressed and happy that you had your girls restrained properly, and were going above and beyond when it came to strapping your girls in. Your two year old was still rear-facing, which amazed me, because almost everybody turns those car seats around at the one year mark. And your seven year old was in a booster. Which is the law, of course, but many people don't see the importance of having an older child in a booster seat. They are all so lucky you were being extra cautious.

I have a four year old myself, and am also careful that he's strapped in and sitting up straight wherever we go. But that day got me thinking about how we can be even more careful while we're on the road. You've really set the bar high.

Good job!

p.s. If you need any help while recovering don't hesitate to ask. I can be reached at rachelander@gmail.com.

so far not so good