Annandale student dies in crash

Annie Vu, a sophomore at Annandale High School, was killed in a crash on Dec. 25. Her grandmother, Theresa, 75, was also killed, and her brother, Andy, a sixth-grader at Holmes Middle School, sustained serious brain injuries.

“On Christmas evening, the Vu family was making their way home from a family event in Fairfax County, when they were rear-ended by an intoxicated driver of a pickup truck going over 100 mph,” states a GoFundMe page set up by a family member.

Annie Vu, age 15, was a National Honor Society student and a member of the Annandale track team. She was known as “kind, thoughtful, and hard working by all,” according to an obituary. She hoped to one day join the medical field to help others in need.

“Annie was a sweet, smart girl who was loved by all,” the GoFundMe page states. “She was known for her witty remarks, her love for the piano, baking, and her bright smile. She was the best older sister to her little brother Andy; she always watched over him with much love. They were inseparable, attached at the hip wherever they went.”

“Andy is a wonderful son, grandson, and brother – known for his strength, kindness, and big heart,” the page says. He is deeply loved by family, friends, and all who know him. We are praying for his full recovery.” 

“The family is in deep shock over the sudden and tragic loss of life, and they are asking for your help to lighten the burden of this tragedy and allow Andy and his parents to focus on the long path of recovery ahead,” the GoFundMe page states.

“No one should ever have to endure what the Vu family is going through, and although the driver of the truck has apparently fled to avoid arrest, we’re committed to bringing them and all others responsible to justice,” the family says.

Mike Astudillo, the principal of Columbia Elementary School, which Annie and Andy attended, advised the community of the tragic crash and expressed condolences on behalf of the staff. The school-based mental health team is available to help students who need to talk or process their grief.

A Mass will be held for Annie on Jan. 10, 10 a.m., at the Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Catholic Church, 915 S. Wakefield St., Arlington, followed by a burial at 12 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax. Visitation will be held on Jan. 9, 3-8 p.m., at the Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road.