Earlier this week, news broke that tennis star Venus Williams, 37, had been involved in a fatal car accident in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, on June 9. According to reports, Williams was crossing an intersection when her Toyota SUV collided with a Hyundai being driven by Linda Barson, 68. Passenger Jerome Barson, 78, Linda's husband, was badly injured in the crash and died on June 22 after spending two weeks in the hospital.
Williams, who was physically unharmed, was found at fault for the crash. Witnesses alleged that she ran a red light, thus “violating the right of way” of the Barsons' car. Williams' vehicle was traveling 5 miles per hour at the time of collision, and no alcohol, drugs, or electronics are suspected to be factors.
The Barsons' daughter, Audrey Gassner-Dunayer, has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against Williams. According to The New York Times, the lawsuit describes "extensive damage to both vehicles," saying, “The front end of the Hyundai Accent was crushed, the front windshield shattered, the airbags deployed, there was crush damage to the rear on the driver’s side, and the back window was shattered ... The Defendant’s Toyota Sequoia was also severely damaged.” It also explains in graphic detail the Barsons' injuries.
On Friday evening, Williams broke her silence regarding the accident.
"I am devastated and heartbroken by this accident," Williams posted to Facebook. "My heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Jerome Barson and I continue to keep them in my thoughts and prayers."
Despite the personal turmoil, Williams will play at Wimbledon in England next week.