A Massachusetts family celebrating their son’s birthday was struck by unspeakable tragedy after a suspected drunk driver crashed into their car — killing a 5-year-old girl and, days later, her mother.
On Saturday, May 24, Minaben Patel, 38, and her family were driving in Franklin, Massachusetts, when their vehicle was allegedly hit head-on by a pick-up truck driven by David Blanchard, 21, authorities said. The family was heading to a restaurant to celebrate their son’s 14th birthday.
According to the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office, the crash occurred around 6:22 p.m. Blanchard was allegedly drinking from an open bottle of Tito’s vodka and had two bottles of alcohol in his vehicle at the time. He reportedly crossed the center line and drove into oncoming traffic, slamming into the Patel family’s car.
Krisha Patel, just 5 years old, was rushed to the hospital but sadly died shortly after arrival. Her mother, Minaben Patel, was in critical condition for days before succumbing to her injuries on Tuesday, June 4, officials confirmed.
Her 14-year-old brother was also hospitalized in critical condition, while her father, Atulkumar Patel, who was driving, was treated and later released.
The crash happened shortly after the family had left a local soccer game. In a police report obtained by WCVB, Atulkumar Patel said he saw the truck veering into their lane moments before the impact. The family had been on their way to Blackstone for a birthday dinner.
Authorities report that Blanchard had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.189 — more than double the legal limit of 0.08 in Massachusetts. Prosecutors say he drank 3/4 of a 1.75-liter bottle of vodka before getting behind the wheel. He admitted to drinking after leaving work and stopping by a liquor store in Plainville.
The suspect, a mechanic, told police he had consumed two beers at a landscaping job and later began drinking vodka straight from the bottle while driving. When questioned about the crash, he reportedly offered vague answers, stating the incident happened quickly and he couldn’t remember much.
Blanchard was arrested and charged with motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence (OUI), and other offenses. He has pleaded not guilty and is currently being held on $250,000 bail. Additional charges could follow, but the district attorney’s office has not commented on that possibility.
The Town of Medway shared a heartfelt post on Facebook inviting the community to attend a Service of Remembrance for Minaben Patel. The event, set for Thursday, June 5, at 6:00 PM, will take place at 72 Grove Street, Franklin. It is meant to honor “a life marked by love, kindness, and quiet strength.”
This devastating Massachusetts drunk driving crash has left a family shattered and a community in mourning. As legal proceedings begin, many are calling for stricter enforcement against impaired driving to prevent future tragedies.
