Fatal Collision in Pleasanton: Shock Over Loss of Indian American Family in Car Crash

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Fatal Collision in Pleasanton

Four members of an Indian American family lost their lives in a fatal car crash in Pleasanton, California, on Wednesday night. According to local reports, the Pleasanton Police Department stated that the crash involved a single car and took place around 9 p.m. on Foothill Road near Stoneridge Drive. While authorities are still in the process of notifying the next of kin, a publication in the Malayalam language identified the victims as Tharun George, his wife, and their two children. George, originally from Thiruvalla in Kerala, India, worked for a tech company, according to the publication. Police have indicated that they are currently unsure whether speed played a role in the accident or if alcohol was a contributing factor. However, they have ruled out foul play. Following the accident, the family's electric car caught fire, which led to multiple reignitions while investigators were clearing the scene. In a statement posted online, the Pleasanton Police Department stated, "We are conducting a thorough investigation and do not have additional information at this point. We will release further details as they become available. For now, our priority is protecting the victims’ identities as we notify family and complete our investigation." Pleasanton is approximately 40 miles east of San Francisco. The Pleasanton Unified School District confirmed that the children involved in the accident were students at their schools. Patrick Gannon, the district’s Director of Communication, expressed sadness over the incident, describing it as tragic and somber. In response to the tragedy, the school district announced that it would provide additional counseling and support resources to students until at least Friday. Throughout Thursday, individuals, including loved ones, friends, and even strangers, gathered at the accident site to pay their respects. Hasan Shaikh, who had worked with the father at a tech company in the South Bay, shared fond memories of him, describing him as a nice, energetic person. Shaikh did not disclose the family’s identity, emphasizing the need to respect the authorities’ process. He expressed deep sadness over the loss, highlighting the family’s positive attributes and the impact they had on those around them.