Crime & Safety
Billionaire Mars Candy Co-Owner Charged in Fatal Traffic Accident
October 4 accident killed an elderly woman visiting Virginia for a wedding.
Jacqueline Badger Mars, one of the richest people in the world and co-owner of the Mars candy company, will be charged with reckless driving in connection with a fatal car crash in Loudoun County earlier this month, according to news reports.
The Washington Post reports, citing the Loudoun County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, that Mars faces a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving.
Police have said Mars was driving a Porsche SUV that struck a minvan occupied by several Texas women on Oct. 4 in Aldie.
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One of the passengers from the minivan died in the accident, and prosecutors had been reviewing the case to determine whether charges should be filed.
Mars, 74, has been ranked as one of the world’s richest people and is a resident of The Plains, Va., her wealth acquired as heiress to the McLean-based Mars Inc. candy company, makers of Milky Way, M&Ms, Twix, Skittles, Snickers and the Mars bar.The Loudoun County's Sheriff Office said at the time that her SUV, heading west on Route 50, crossed the center line and struck the minivan, which was traveling east.
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Irene C. Ellisor, 86, of Huntsville Tex., died at the scene. Others in the minivan were seriously injured. The group was reportedly in Virginia for a family wedding.
“As court proceedings begin, Jackie’s thoughts and prayers remain with those who have suffered injury and loss,” Kent Jarrell, a personal spokesperson for Mars, told The Post Tuesday. “She regrets this tragic accident.”Mars was served Tuesday with a summons and is expected to appear in Loudoun County General District Court at a hearing scheduled Dec. 5 at 8:30 a.m., the Post reported.
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