Diane Goetz Randolph NJ Obituary – A Life of Impact

On April 10, 2025, the Randolph, New Jersey community was struck by a devastating tragedy—a multi-vehicle crash on Route 10 that claimed the lives of four individuals, including Diane Goetz, a 71-year-old resident of Randolph Township. This blog post serves as a heartfelt obituary, celebrating Diane’s life, her contributions to her community, and the legacy she leaves behind. While the circumstances of her passing are heartbreaking, her story is one of resilience, connection, and impact. Join us as we honor Diane Goetz, reflect on her life, and explore the broader context of this tragedy in Morris County.

Diane Goetz Randolph NJ Obituary

The Life and Legacy of Diane Goetz

Diane Goetz was more than just a name in the Randolph community—she was a beacon of warmth, compassion, and quiet strength. At 71, Diane had lived a life full of meaningful connections, touching the lives of those around her through small acts of kindness and a steadfast commitment to her community. While specific details about her personal achievements remain private out of respect for her family, her presence in Randolph Township was undeniable.

Randolph, a close-knit town in Morris County, thrives on the contributions of residents like Diane. Known for its scenic beauty and strong community ties, Randolph was a fitting home for someone who embodied its values. Diane was the kind of person who made others feel seen and valued, whether through a friendly conversation at a local event or her involvement in community activities. Her life, though tragically cut short, serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on those around them.

The Tragic Crash on Route 10

The events of April 10, 2025, shook Randolph and the broader Morris County community to its core. At approximately 3:20 p.m., a horrific four-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Route 10 and Millbrook Avenue. Among the vehicles involved was a school minivan transporting students and staff from P.G. Chambers School, a nonprofit in Cedar Knolls dedicated to educating children with disabilities.

The crash claimed the lives of four individuals: Diane Goetz, 71, of Randolph; Bertha Castaneda, 67, of Dover; Maria Z. Figueroa, 58, of Wharton; and Yexsel “Dexsel” Reyes Granados, a 4-year-old from Hackettstown. Two children were hospitalized with injuries, and two adults received treatment at the scene. The loss of life, particularly that of a young child, amplified the tragedy’s impact, leaving the community grappling with grief.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll described the incident as a “horrible tragedy” for the region, urging residents to exercise sensitivity in sharing information online. The Randolph Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and Morris County Sheriff’s Office CSI Unit are actively investigating the crash, but details about its cause remain limited as of April 11, 2025.

Honoring the Victims

While this post focuses on Diane Goetz, it’s important to acknowledge the other lives lost in this tragedy. Bertha Castaneda and Maria Z. Figueroa were traveling in the school minivan, registered to Alyft Transport LLC, which was transporting students for P.G. Chambers School. Both women were valued members of their communities, and their loss is deeply felt.

Yexsel Reyes Granados, known affectionately as Dexsel, was a 4-year-old whose bright spirit touched everyone around him. A GoFundMe page created by his cousin, Miguel Velásquez, described Dexsel as a “sweet, courageous child” who brought joy despite the challenges he faced. The fundraiser, which has raised over $23,000, highlights the community’s outpouring of support for Dexsel’s family.

P.G. Chambers School: A Community Anchor

The involvement of a P.G. Chambers School vehicle in the crash adds another layer of sorrow. Founded in 1954, P.G. Chambers School (formerly the Children’s Center for Therapy and Learning) is a cornerstone of Morris County, providing education and support for children with disabilities. The school’s executive director, Patty Sly, expressed profound sadness over the tragedy, noting that transportation for students is arranged by their respective school districts.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of yesterday’s multi-vehicle accident on Route 10,” Sly said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to the families of those who lost their lives and all those impacted.” The school is offering support to its community as it navigates this loss, a testament to its commitment to compassion and care.

The Community’s Response

Randolph Township and Morris County have rallied together in the wake of the crash. The Randolph Township mayor and council issued a statement on April 11, 2025, expressing their condolences: “We are deeply saddened and offer our most sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the accident. While we know no words are adequate in the wake of such sorrow, we mourn alongside you during this difficult time.”

Local leaders, including Hanover Committee Member Brian Cahill, also shared their grief, emphasizing P.G. Chambers School’s role as a vital community institution. The closure of Route 10 for nearly seven hours underscored the crash’s severity, disrupting daily life and serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life.

Diane’s Lasting Impact

Though Diane Goetz’s life ended tragically, her legacy endures through the memories she created and the lives she touched. In a town like Randolph, where community matters, Diane’s presence was a gift. Her story encourages us to cherish our connections, lend a helping hand, and live with purpose.

The crash has also sparked conversations about road safety in Morris County. Route 10, a busy thoroughfare, has seen its share of accidents, and this tragedy highlights the need for vigilance and infrastructure improvements. While the investigation continues, the community is left to mourn and reflect on how to move forward.

FAQ: Diane Goetz and the Route 10 Crash

Q: Who was Diane Goetz?
A: Diane Goetz was a 71-year-old resident of Randolph Township, NJ, known for her kindness and community involvement. She passed away in a multi-vehicle crash on April 10, 2025.

Q: What happened in the Route 10 crash?
A: On April 10, 2025, a four-vehicle collision occurred at Route 10 and Millbrook Avenue in Randolph, NJ, involving a school minivan. Four people, including Diane Goetz, died, and several others were injured.

Q: Who else was affected by the crash?
A: The crash claimed the lives of Bertha Castaneda, Maria Z. Figueroa, and Yexsel Reyes Granados, a 4-year-old. Two children and two adults were also injured.

Q: What is P.G. Chambers School?
A: P.G. Chambers School is a nonprofit in Cedar Knolls, NJ, that educates children with disabilities. The school’s minivan was involved in the crash, transporting students and staff.

Q: How can I help the victims’ families?
A: A GoFundMe page has been created for Yexsel Reyes Granados’ family. For other victims, consider reaching out to local community organizations or respecting the families’ privacy during this time.

Q: Is there an ongoing investigation?
A: Yes, the Randolph Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and Sheriff’s Office are investigating. Witnesses are urged to contact (973) 989-7000 or (973) 285-6200.

Conclusion

Diane Goetz’s life, though tragically ended, reminds us of the power of community and the importance of living with kindness and purpose. Her story, intertwined with the broader tragedy on Route 10, calls us to reflect on our own lives and the ways we can make a difference. As Randolph mourns the loss of Diane, Bertha, Maria, and young Dexsel, let us honor their memories by fostering connection, supporting one another, and advocating for a safer future. Diane’s light may have dimmed, but her legacy will continue to inspire the Morris County community for years to come.