Two teenage best friends, 16-year-old Isabell DeLand and 17-year-old Maddalyn Dailey, were killed Friday in Victorville, California, when their Acura TL was struck by two speeding vehicles, according to the California Highway Patrol. The violent collision caused their car to split in half, killing them instantly.
The crash occurred in a 55-mph speed limit zone involving a Dodge Charger and a Chevy Camaro. One of the drivers involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities, while the other allegedly fled on foot, leaving behind a minor. Authorities are actively searching for the driver who fled.
Dustin Dailey, Maddalyn's father, recounted his daughter's last words to him, saying she was dropping off her friend and would be back for dinner. He described the area as a "death trap" due to the lack of traffic signals.
Megan DeLand, Isabell's mother, expressed her disbelief and ongoing struggle to cope with the loss, particularly after recently receiving her daughter's senior photos.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help the families with funeral and memorial expenses. Maddalyn's family noted on the page that they are facing unexpected financial burdens and are asking for support to allow them to focus on grieving.
Isabell and Maddalyn had been friends since grade school and were both students at Sultana High School. Friends and family described Isabell as beautiful, sweet, funny, smart, and strong in her faith, with big dreams and a deep love for her church. Maddalyn had aspirations to join the military after high school.
Authorities are asking anyone with information regarding the crash or the whereabouts of the driver who fled to contact the California Highway Patrol at 760-241-1186.