Donations Needed For Family Of Dad And 5-Year-Old Killed In GWB Crash

FORT LEE, NJ — An online fund has been started to help the family of a father and 5-year-old who were killed in a motor vehicle crash on the George Washington Bridge Thursday.

Five-year-old Marianna Pedercini and her father, Hector, 50, of Howell were pronounced dead at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, police previously said. The family's GMC Acadia struck the back of a tractor-trailer that was stopped in the left lane on the eastbound upper level on the New York side of the bridge.

Three other people were in the SUV: Hector Pedercini's wife and Marianna's mother, Mariella Pedercini, 40, her 1-year-old child, whose name was not released, and her mother, 64-year-old Elda Lainez, also of Howell.

RELATED: Police Release IDs Of NJ 5-Year-Old, Man Killed In GWB Crash

"You could find them watching a soccer game together or taking a walk on the beach," Krys Michele wrote on the GoFundMe page. "Their smiles could light up any room."

More than $1,500 has been donated to the campaign in the 14 hours since Michele launched it. The goal is to raise $25,0oo. The money will be used to offset funeral expenses and help pay for medical bills.

"Any contribution can help this family get through this difficult time," Michele said.

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