Paramus Bus Crash Victim Out Of ICU

PARAMUS, NJ — Sofia Evelich continues to fight. And she is winning.

Evelich was one of the 43 people from East Brook Middle School injured in a horrific bus crash on I-80 in Mount Olive May 17. The bus was on its way to Waterloo Village when it collided with a dump truck. Evelich suffered severe head trauma as a result of the crash and was in the ICU for three weeks.

Evelich's brother, Ron posted an update about his sister on a GoFundMe page created to help his sister. More than $75,000 has been donated since the page went live three weeks ago.

"Although Sofia still has a very long road ahead in her next level of treatment, we believe everyone’s prayers will help her get stronger everyday," Ron Evelich said on the GoFundMe page. "We cannot thank you enough for all your support. Please continue to pray for my little sister, Sofia."

Two people, 10-year-old Miranda Vargas and teacher Jennifer Williamson Kennedy, died in the crash. The 43 people other people, including the driver, Hudy Muldrow Sr., were injured, many critically. The bus was one of three shuttling Paramus middle school students to a school field trip at Waterloo Village in Byram Township.

Muldrow, 77, was charged with two counts of death by auto, commonly referred to as vehicular manslaughter.

Tens of thousands of dollars has been donated to help support the victims and their families following the crash. Applebee's on Route 17 will host a special breakfast fundraiser Saturday for the victims. A special gala will be held at Biagio's June 19 to raise money for the victims.

Related:

• Paramus Girl Still Critical Following School Bus Crash
• Paramus Strong Gala Will Raise Money For Bus Crash Memorial
  
• Paramus Applebee's Hosting Fundraiser For Bus Crash Victims

Email daniel.hubbard@patch.com

Photo: Sofia Evelich (Courtesy of GoFundMe, a promotional partner of Patch)