Hikers and beachgoers at a popular coastal overlook in Northern California witnessed the tragic moment an SUV drove through a wooden barrier and fell off a cliff.
64-year-old Maria Teixeira and her daughter, 41-year-old Elizabeth Correia, tragically died from the crash after their car drove through the parking lot at the Bodega Bay’s Head Trail without braking.
California Highway Patrol Officer David de Rutte said that the exact cause of the crash is still being investigated.
According to witnesses, the car plowed through a wooden barrier in the parking area and plunged off the 100ft cliff.
“Witnesses saw the vehicle driving through the parking lot – and it just kept driving. It didn’t stop. There was no accelerating but also no braking,” de Rutte said.
Capt Justin Fox of the Bodega Bay Fire Protection District said that the women had died by the time a deputy and firefighters arrived.
Photos from the tragic scene showed that the mother’s SUV landed on its roof.
According to sheriff’s officials and relatives, Teixeira was a lead custodian at Montevideo Elementary in San Ramon while her daughter Correia was a first-grade teacher at Lydiksen Elementary in Pleasanton.
Correia’s biography on the website of the school showed that she had taught in Pleasanton since 2005.
“She enjoys teaching, reading, music, art, movies, Disneyland and spending time with friends and family,” it reads.
The accident happened Saturday as beachgoers and hikers flocked to the popular Pacific Ocean overlook.
Texeira’s son took to Facebook and wrote: “It’s with heavy heart that I share my mom, Maria Teixeira and my sister, Elizabeth Correia, both passed away yesterday after being involved in a single car crash in Bodega Bay.
“There is a hole in my heart that will never be filled now. I’m so grateful for them and the time we shared. They will forever be part of me. I love you mom and sis.”
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