Massachusetts family killed in highway crash remembered for their faith, kindness, and dedication to others

A Massachusetts family killed in a highway crash on Friday is being remembered.

According to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, five people are dead, including a 13-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy, after the driver of a motorcoach slammed into stopped traffic on I-95 in Virginia.

FMCSA Administrator Derek Barrs and DOT investigators are on the ground at the crash site working with the NTSB.  

Local police confirm the driver of the motorcoach is a U.S. citizen who received his commercial driver’s license from New York State in 2024 and could not speak English.

Investigators are reviewing New York licensing records, training documentation, and the driver’s history. Duffy stated that “any company, trainer, or school that contributed to putting an unqualified driver on the road will face intense scrutiny.”

According to a GoFundMe fundraiser, a Greenfield, Massachusetts family, Dmitri Doncev, 45, Ecaterina Doncev, 44, Emily Doncev, 14, and Mark Doncev, 7, tragically passed away on Friday morning while traveling to a family wedding in South Carolina.

A family friend issued the following statement:

“The Doncev family immigrated to the United States in 2008, making Greenfield, Massachusetts their home. Through their faith, kindness, and dedication to others, they became a cherished part of their community and touched countless lives.

“Dmitri was known for his bright personality and generous spirit. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need and brought warmth and encouragement wherever he went. As a Registered Nurse at Holyoke Medical Center’s Mental Health Unit, he devoted his life to caring for others with compassion and dignity.

“Ecaterina will be remembered for her creative mind, outgoing nature, and joyful presence. Her kindness, strength, and love for her family made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

“Emily was a sweet and gentle teenager whose quiet nature was matched by her remarkable intelligence and dedication. A straight-A student, she had a bright future ahead of her and was loved deeply by her family, friends, and teachers.

“Mark’s life was a testament to courage from the very beginning. Born at just 26 weeks, he fought through challenges with incredible determination. Despite his young age, he possessed the biggest heart and brought endless joy, love, and laughter to those around him.

“The Doncev family faithfully attended Greenfield Russian Baptist Church, where they worshipped alongside a congregation that became their extended family. Their faith, love, and devotion to God were evident in the way they lived their lives and cared for others.”

The fifth person killed in the crash, a Worcester resident, has not yet been identified.