Holland woman killed, driver charged in high-speed crash
Authorities identified the victim who died as Maria Venegas-Acevedo, 62, of Holland, who was a passenger in the Jeep.
HOLLAND TWP. — A local woman was killed and two others remain hospitalized following a high-speed, two-vehicle crash in Holland Township on Tuesday evening that led to drunk driving charges against the other driver, according to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office.
Emergency crews from the Sheriff’s Office and the Holland Township Fire Department responded shortly after 7:10 p.m. on Sept. 29 to the intersection of Butternut Drive and James Street.
At the scene, first responders found a damaged black GMC Acadia and a black Jeep Grand Cherokee blocking the roadway.
Authorities identified the victim who died as Maria Venegas-Acevedo, 62, of Holland, who was a passenger in the Jeep.
According to preliminary investigative findings, the GMC Acadia, driven by 36-year-old Rajinder Kaur of Holland, was traveling northwest on Butternut Drive at a high rate of speed.
As the Jeep, traveling southeast with five occupants, attempted to make a left turn onto James Street, the GMC collided with it in the intersection.
Venegas-Acevedo suffered fatal injuries in the impact.
Venegas-Acevedo's husband, Jose Acevedo, 62, was a passenger in the Jeep and suffered severe injuries; he was airlifted to a regional hospital, while the Jeep’s driver was transported by ground ambulance; both remain hospitalized.
A 1-year-old child and a 22-year-old male passenger in the Jeep escaped injury, as did Kaur, who was the sole occupant of the GMC.
Kaur was arrested at the scene and lodged at the Ottawa County Jail. The Ottawa County Prosecuting Attorney's Office authorized criminal charges of operating while intoxicated causing death. She faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine between $2,500 and $10,000.
On Sept. 30, Kaur was arraigned by Judge Anna White in 58th District Court, where her bond was set at $25,000 (10%). She has since posted bond and been released.
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The crash remains under active investigation by the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Services Unit, and officials noted that additional charges are possible.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip through Silent Observer at 877-88-SILENT (745368) or online at mosotips.com.
Friends of the victims have started a GoFundMe to help cover funeral expenses and medical costs. Learn more here.
— Submitted by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
