Another Heartbreaking Loss in Franklin, MA Crash: Mother of 5-Year-Old Victim Has Died

KBD Attorneys – Advocates for Victims of Catastrophic Vehicle Accidents in Massachusetts

Just days ago, we at KBD Attorneys wrote about a devastating truck crash in Franklin, Massachusetts, that claimed the life of a 5-year-old girl. Today, with heavy hearts, we must share the tragic update that her mother, Minaben Patel, has also passed away from injuries sustained in the same crash.

Minaben, only 38 years old, fought for her life in the hospital for 10 days after the accident that had already taken her daughter. She died surrounded by family and loved ones. The Patel family, once on their way to celebrate their son’s birthday, is now enduring unimaginable grief—having lost both a daughter and a mother in a tragedy that never should have happened.

This post honors the lives of Minaben and her daughter, highlights the dangers of drunk driving, and explains how KBD Attorneys is here to help families like the Patels when the unthinkable happens.

A Joyful Day Turned into a Nightmare

On the evening of May 24, 2025, the Patel family was on their way to celebrate their son’s 14th birthday after attending a local soccer game. As they drove down Grove Street in Franklin, a pickup truck allegedly driven by 21-year-old James Blanchard crossed into their lane and struck their vehicle. Blanchard’s truck contained multiple open containers of alcohol, and his blood alcohol level was .189—more than double the Massachusetts legal limit of .08.

The impact of the crash was catastrophic. Their 5-year-old daughter was flown to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Minaben Patel, who had been seated in the vehicle with her family, sustained severe injuries and was hospitalized in critical condition until her death on June 3. Her son also suffered serious injuries, and her husband was treated and released.

This wasn’t just a collision—it was a life-shattering event for the entire family and the Franklin community.

One Family, Two Lives Lost

Minaben Patel was a mother, a wife, a neighbor, and a member of her community. The death of her daughter was already a profound tragedy. Losing Minaben days later from the same preventable act of negligence is nothing short of heartbreaking.

These weren’t isolated incidents. These were a mother and child—taken from the same family, in the same crash, by the same irresponsible decision.

As the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office and Franklin Police Chief said in a joint statement, “We are saddened by the loss to Minaben’s family and extend our heartfelt condolences.”

We at KBD Attorneys echo those sentiments. There are no words that can truly capture the depth of this loss.

The Dangers of Drunk Driving: A Stark Reminder

The facts are undeniable and disturbing. Police found vodka and beer containers inside Blanchard’s truck. He drank at a landscaping job, then continued by drinking more vodka straight from the bottle while driving home. According to police reports, he drank nearly three-quarters of a 1.75-liter bottle of Tito’s vodka.

The result? A father forced to watch as his family is destroyed. A 14-year-old boy who will never forget what was supposed to be his birthday. A community in mourning.

This tragedy reinforces a truth we must never forget: driving under the influence kills. It robs families of their loved ones, shatters futures and turns birthdays into anniversaries of loss.

Why Truck Accidents Are Especially Dangerous

While impaired driving is horrific in any form, the fact that this crash involved a pickup truck adds another layer of danger. Larger vehicles like trucks carry more mass and momentum, making collisions far more devastating—especially when the driver is intoxicated.

Pickup trucks and other large vehicles require longer stopping distances, have more significant blind spots, and cause greater impact in a crash. At KBD Attorneys, we’ve seen time and again how truck accidents result in catastrophic injuries or death, particularly when alcohol is involved.

How KBD Attorneys Can Help Victims of Drunk Driving Crashes

At KBD Attorneys, we represent families devastated by vehicle accidents—especially those caused by drunk or reckless drivers. We know the trauma. We understand the legal complexities. And we have the experience to fight for justice.

When a tragedy like this occurs, the law allows surviving victims and family members to seek justice through personal injury and wrongful death claims. Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses

• Funeral and burial costs

• Loss of future earnings

• Pain and suffering

• Loss of companionship

While no legal outcome can bring Minaben or her daughter back, holding the responsible party accountable can bring a sense of justice and help the surviving family begin to rebuild their lives.

Seeking Justice While Grieving

Pursuing a legal case while mourning the loss of a loved one is incredibly difficult. That’s why our team is committed to making the process as supportive and respectful as possible. We take on the burden of legal work so that our clients can focus on healing.

James Blanchard, the 21-year-old driver responsible for the crash, has been charged with motor vehicle homicide and operating under the influence. He is being held on $250,000 bail. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 24. But regardless of the criminal justice outcome, the civil justice system can help ensure that the Patel family receives the compensation and accountability they deserve.

A Message to the Community: Don’t Let This Happen Again

This story should never have had a second chapter. A mother and daughter are now both gone—not because of an accident, but because of a deliberate and reckless choice made by one individual.

We urge everyone: do not drive drunk. Don’t let one poor decision destroy a family’s future. If you see someone about to get behind the wheel while intoxicated—step in. Speak up. Call for help.

And if your family has already been affected by a tragic crash, you are not alone. KBD Attorneys is here to listen, to advise, and to fight for you.

KBD Attorneys – Here for Families Like Yours

We stand by the Patel family’s tragedy and extend our sincerest condolences to everyone impacted by this horrific event. Our Massachusetts car and truck accident lawyers are here to support victims of impaired driving crashes through compassionate legal guidance and aggressive representation.

Whether it’s a drunk driving accident, a fatal truck crash, or any catastrophic injury case, KBD Attorneys is ready to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you seek justice, rebuild, and protect your future.