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Teen Siblings Killed in Kalamazoo Co. Crash

Posted at 3:44 PM, Dec 03, 2013
and last updated 2013-12-03 18:45:04-05

OSHTEMO, Mich. — Two teenage siblings were killed Tuesday morning in a fiery crash in Oshtemo.

According to a press release, Anneka Vels, 17, and Landon Vels, 13, both of Otsego, crashed into a tree in the 9000 block of W. G Avenue at roughly 6:40 a.m.

The minivan Anneka was driving burst into flames, and they were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Kalamazoo County undersheriff on the scene said slick roads played a factor in the crash.  One driver claimed to be driving 35 mph, and said the minivan passed them and slammed into the tree.

Linda Weston, who lives across the street from where the accident happened, said she called 911 right after she heard the crash.  In the meantime her husband went out to help.

Weston says her husband and another were using fire extinguishers after the car started to spark. Shortly after a fire fighter who lived nearby arrived, he was able to break a window and check Anneka’s pulse. Deputies believe the two died on impact.

Weston says her heart goes to the family.

Heritage Christian Academy sent students home early Tuesday following the accident, putting a post on Facebook that there had been a tragedy in the “school family.”  Grief counselors will be on hand Wednesday.

The crash remains under investigation.