On Monday, April 13, 2026, my family and I experienced an unimaginable loss when my parents, Roland and Carolyn Squires, were killed in a car accident near the junction of the 14 and 58 freeways in Mojave, CA. My father was merging onto the 58 when their vehicle was struck on the driver’s side by an SUV. My mother was seated directly behind my father in the backseat, and her death was instantaneous. Despite the best efforts of first responders, my father died of his injuries at the scene some twenty minutes after the crash.

My sister, Patty, was in the front passenger's seat, and survived the collision with multiple serious injuries to her back and arms and several broken ribs. After undergoing multiple surgeries on her back, Patty is currently in stable condition at the Antelope Valley Medical Center. She faces a long and difficult road to recovery.

Right now, my family is navigating overwhelming grief alongside urgent end-of-life and medical expenses. To that end, I am humbly asking for support to help cover cremation and memorial costs, so that I can honor my parents with the dignity and peace they deserve. All contributions will go directly to these costs, and will make a meaningful difference at this incredibly difficult time.

Finally, I am also asking for any photos and/or stories featuring either or both of my parents for use in a slideshow at that memorial, which is scheduled for June 27, 2026 (finalized details to follow). If you are not in a position to donate, please know that these photos and stories will be just as valuable to my family and me. If you have any to share, it would mean the world to us.

I would also be very thankful if those of you who feel so inclined might share this fundraiser on your socials, via email, etc.

I am deeply grateful for the love and kindness many of you have already shown, and I thank you sincerely for any support you are able to provide.

With appreciation,

Vernon Hunt