A tragic car accident claimed the lives of an entire Texas family on what was meant to be a joyful college move-in day, leaving a 14-year-old boy orphaned.
Adiryan Arvind lost his parents and older sister in a fiery collision on U.S. Highway 281 as they traveled to the University of Texas at Dallas on August 14.
The crash occurred early that morning when the family’s 2024 Kia Telluride was struck by a 2004 Cadillac CTS, resulting in a devastating impact that killed all five people involved.
Among the victims were Adiryan’s father, Arvind Mani, 45; his mother, Pradeepa Arvind, 40; and his sister, Andril Arvind, 17, who was set to begin her freshman year in college.
Adiryan was not on the trip, which spared him from the accident but left him without his entire immediate family.
A GoFundMe campaign, organized by family friend Rajaraman Venkatachalam, has raised nearly $1 million in donations to support the teen as he faces life without his loved ones.
“Andril was preparing to pursue computer science at UTD, while Adiryan was beginning his freshman year in high school,” Venkatachalam wrote.
He also shared that Arvind and Pradeepa were beloved members of the Austin Indian community, while their daughter had recently graduated from Rouse High School.
The outpouring of donations and support highlights the collective grief felt by the community, with Rouse High School Principal Vincent Hawkins noting that the loss has deeply affected students, staff, and neighbors alike.
The family’s absence leaves a void in their community, but the funds raised will help ensure Adiryan has resources for his future during this unimaginable time.
While the GoFundMe campaign has paused further donations, the community’s solidarity reflects a shared commitment to helping Adiryan navigate the challenges ahead.
