A mum and dad have been killed in a horrific ATV smash that also left seven of their children injured.
Marcus Ragland, 34, and Ashley Hawkins, 31, died when their side-by-side RZR vehicle collided with another ATV while off-roading at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Piedmont, Alabama, US, on Saturday (30 August) afternoon.
The devastating impact sent the ATV flying 150 feet before flipping and slamming into a tree, as reported by What’s the Jam.
READ MORE: Evil stepmum who murdered partner’s kids before hiding their bodies in concrete jailed for life
Ragland was thrown from the wreck and pronounced dead at the scene, while Hawkins was airlifted to hospital but later died from her injuries.
Seven of the pair’s children, aged from a baby to 12, were also inside the ATV.
None were strapped in with seatbelts.
Officials stressed that while safety harnesses aren’t required at the park, the situation was “highly unsafe”.
All seven youngsters were rushed to hospital – four were airlifted with serious injuries.
The two people inside the other ATV were not hurt and tried to help at the scene, according to authorities.
Police are awaiting toxicology reports to determine if alcohol played a role in the crash.
Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver said: “This is a tragic accident and highlights the importance of operating RZRs and other recreational vehicles in a safe and responsible manner.”
Coroner Paul McDonald added: “Scenes like this are always difficult, especially when they involve children.
“Please do everything you can to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.
“The ones involved in the accident remain in our thoughts and prayers, as well as all of the families affected.”
Ragland, a father of 10, and Hawkins, a mother of three, from Georgia, shared two children together.
An investigation into the deadly crash is ongoing.
READ MORE: Athlete, 35, dies while training for swim from Alcatraz Island to mainland
