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Wrong way driver’s family: “We’re sorry”

Posted at 11:41 PM, May 04, 2013
and last updated 2013-05-04 23:41:18-04

CHESTERFIELD, Va (WTVR) - The family of the 70-year old Chesterfield woman who was killed in a head-on collision Saturday morning has a message for the family of the man in the other car: "We're sorry."

The Virginia State Police said Drema "Sue" McCauley was driving south in the northbound lanes of Chippenham Parkway when she hit another car head-on.  McCauley was pronounced dead on scene.

The driver of the other vehicle was taken to VCU Medical Center with serious injuries.

McCauley leaves behind three children as well as grandchildren and great children.  CBS 6 reporter Jake Burns sat down with two of McCauley's children, Darryl McCauley and Mandy Granai, Saturday night.

"Everything is just an absolute mystery right now," said Granai.

McCauley's family does not know how or why their mother got on the wrong side of the highway, nor did they know who was riding with her during the wreck.  Investigators said a passenger in McCauley's vehicle suffered minor injuries.

"She was just the most peaceful person on this earth," said Darryl McCauley of his mother.

Granai said her mother had shown early signs of dementia in recent years, and had moved in with Darryl because of several other health issues.

"Darryl and I had actually had a conversation about how long it was going to be before we were going to have to take her drivers license because I was concerned about her welfare, as well as [the welfare of] others," said Granai.

The latest update from state police stated the driver of the car that McCauley struck was in the hospital with serious injuries.

Through their own grieving, Granai and McCauly said they have been praying for the man's family.

"It's very important for our family for them to know that we're thinking about them, that we're praying for them, and that they have our sincere apology."

McCauley's family said her funeral is scheduled for Wednesday, and a public viewing will be held Tuesday.  Family, friends, and the public are welcome to both, they said.

Even though unanswered questions still swirl, McCauley's children are leaning on family and holding onto the little memories of their mother for healing.

"That relationship you have with your mother were you can just call about anything and call about nothing.  That's going to be something I miss," said Granai.

State police said the crash remains under investigation.  No further details will be released at this time.