Parents sue drivers after teen's fatal crash

✅ Sophia DeTorres, 16, was killed in a car crash on the first day of school in 2024

✅ Her brother George suffered serious injuries in the crash

✅ The lawsuit also names the insurance companies for each driver

FRANKLIN (Hunterdon) – The parents of a teen who died in a car crash on the first day of school in 2024 have filed a lawsuit against the driver, who was 17 at the time of the crash.

The three-vehicle crash on Aug. 22, 2024, unfolded at the four-way intersection of Route 617 (Sydney Road), Hogback Road and Lower Landsdown Road in Franklin.

The crash killed Sophia DeTorres, 16, of the Pittstown section.

Sophia, who was entering her senior year at North Hunterdon Regional High School, and her brother George were passengers in the car driven by Mason Dechellis, who was initially charged with these motor vehicle violations: reckless driving, careless driving, disregarding a stop sign and violating the conditions of a probationary license by having too many passengers.

The motor vehicle charges were dropped in a plea deal, according to MyCentralJersey.com.

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Sophia DeTorres (Martin Funeral Home), North Hunterdon High School (North Hunterdon-Voorhees Regional High School District)

Lawsuit: Teen suffered 'great pain' before she died

The girl's parents, George DeTorres Sr. and Noelle Boyd, sued the teen driver and Dakota Marsh, 27, the driver of another vehicle, and their respective insurance companies, Geico and State Farm.

The litigation says that Sophia "was caused to live moments of great pain from the time of the accident up until her death. During that time she suffered greatly and endured much pain and suffering ."

Her brother has suffered "serious and permanent injuries" which has impacted his daily routine.

The lawsuit says that both drivers were operating "carelessly."

Their vehicles were underinsured, according to the lawsuit, plus "severe emotional distress, great pain and suffering of the mind and other emotional and psychological damages" for witnessing the death of his sister. DeTorres and Boyd seek damages, the cost of their lawsuit plus interest.

A month after Sophia's death, the Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners amended a resolution to turn the intersection into a four-way stop.. The commissioners also recommended county engineers take steps to make drivers aware of the change, including the purchase of "afety beacons.

Sophia's parents have created an organization in her memory called Sophia's Shining Light, whose mission is to support groups and individuals that "promote inclusivity and care for those who are isolated, overlooked or underserved."

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Every Lululemon location in the Garden State

Gallery Credit: Kyle Clark

Every Lululemon location in the Garden State

Gallery Credit: Kyle Clark

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

Gallery Credit: Jordan Jansson