Brabant family killed, injured in Germany car crash

A family vacation in southern Germany has ended in tragedy for the Mahieu family from Dongen, Brabant. A car accident on Monday claimed the life of mother Marian and left the rest of the family injured. The accident happened near Grafenau, not far from the border with Austria and the Czech Republic,Omroep Brabant reports. The driver lost control of the car on the wet road and crashed into an oncoming truck and passenger car. The two people in the passenger car, an elderly German couple, were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, according to the broadcaster. Marian, 46, did not survive the accident. Father Ronald was seriously injured and is still in critical condition in the hospital. The couple's 14 year old daughter has been put into a medically induced coma, but is not in mortal danger. The family's two sons, Xander and Stijn, did not sustain severe injuries. Marian Mahieu-Peetes was a valued member of the Dongen athletics association Atledo, where she was a board member, athlete, treadmill coordinator and more. Atledo is stunned by the tragic news, the association said on their website. "Marian was a committed member, always positive and a cordial, warm woman. Her family lost a beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister and aunt. And Atledo lost a committed board member and beloved teammate. We will miss her very much." The municipality of Dongen announced on its Facebook page that they have taken note of the terrible accident with bewilderment and great sadness. Mayor Marina Starmans has made contact with the Mahieu family's closest relatives to offered support where possible. "We are stunned and wish support and strength for the family, relatives and friends in this incredibly difficult time." the mayor said.