Mars Inc. Heiress Involved in Fatal Accident
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iStock/Thinkstock(LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va.) — Jacqueline Mars, one of the world’s wealthiest people, is recuperating at home from injuries sustained during a vehicular accident, which resulted in the death of one woman, police said.
According to a statement released by the Loudoun County, Va., Sheriff’s Office, Mars, 73, was driving her 2004 Porsche SUV Friday afternoon on Route 50 in Aldie, “when for unknown reasons the vehicle crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2013 Chrysler minivan.”
The minivan was occupied by six women from Texas, including 86-year-old Irene Ellisor, who died at the scene. Ellisor was not wearing a seatbelt, according to police. All vehicle occupants are required by law to wear seatbelts in the state, the sheriff’s office said.
“This tragedy has left Jacquie filled with sorrow for the loss of life and those who were injured in the accident,” Kent Jarrell, a spokesperson for Mars, said in a statement. “She would like to express her deepest condolences to the families involved.”
Police say that of the other five passengers in the minivan, the driver was hospitalized in critical condition. The front seat passenger was taken to a neighboring hospital with serious injuries but then released. Three others were transported to hospitals.
Forbes ranked Mars as the 15th richest person in America this year, with a net worth of $20.5 billion. She’s also believed to be the third-richest woman in America. She and her two brothers, John and Forrest Jr., inherited the candy conglomerate from their father, Forrest Sr. when he died in 1999. While she no longer performs day-to-day operations at the company, which makes Milky Way, Snickers and M&Ms, she is on its board of directors.
The case is pending review by the Office of Commonwealth’s Attorney.
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