Girls remain critical after crash that killed their mother, sister

Karen Zekan

Tuesday, March 24, 1998 | 10:22 a.m.

Two young Las Vegas sisters remained hospitalized in critical condition Monday after a weekend auto accident on U.S. 95 that killed their mother and sister and injured their father.

Amanda Caskey, 12, and Jenna Caskey, 5, suffered potentially life-threatening injuries after their father, John Caskey, 39, lost control of the family's 1989 Ford while southbound on the expressway near Lake Mead Boulevard about 8:20 p.m. Friday, authorities said.

The Nevada Highway Patrol, which is still investigating the crash, determined that the Caskeys' vehicle crossed the median and went head-on into the path of a 1989 Lincoln, instantly killing the children's mother, Tonya Caskey, 37, who had been employed as a bingo attendant at the Gold Coast hotel-casino.

Heather Lynn Caskey, 10, a Griffith Elementary School student, died Saturday at University Medical Center, where she had been transported by paramedics along with her three surviving family members.

Beth Ford, 33, the driver of the Lincoln, and John Caskey were listed in serious but stable condition at UMC Monday evening, authorities said.

Funeral services for Tonya and Heather Caskeywere set for 10 a.m. today at St. Bridget's Catholic Church, followed by a graveside service at Palm Mortuary downtown.