Jacqueline Badger Mars, the co-owner of the Mars Inc. candy company, has been charged with a reckless driving stemming from a fatal wreck on Virginia roads.
The Loudoun County Commonwealth Attorney’s Office said Ms. Mars was served with a summons on Tuesday, The Associated Press reported. Sheriff’s officials say she was driving her Porsche SUV on Aldie, Va., roads and swerved across the center line into a minivan. The accident occurred Oct. 4.
A passenger in the van, 86-year-old Irene Ellisor from Texas, was killed on impact, AP said.
Ms. Mars, 74, is the daughter of the candy company’s founder. She ranks on Forbes Magazine’s wealthy list as the world’s seventh-richest woman.
She’s set to appear in court on the misdemeanor charge on Dec. 5.
Ms. Mars said through her spokesman that she “regrets this tragic accident” and sends her prayers to loved ones of the victim.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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