*Family of four killed in crash at exit from Interstate 81

By M.K. Luther -- mkluther@nvdaily.com

STEPHENSON-- A family of four died in a fiery Sunday morning crash on U.S. 11, according to Virginia State Police.

The two-vehicle crash happened around 11 a.m. near exit 317 from Interstate 81 on U.S. 11, according to Sgt. F.L. "Les" Tyler of Virginia State Police.

A 1994 Jeep Cherokee, driven by Amanda Louise Rowe, 31, of Stephenson, was struck from behind by a 1985 Chevrolet pickup while stopped at a red light in the northbound lane of U.S. 11, Tyler said.

The "force of impact" ruptured the Jeep Cherokee's fuel tank and the vehicle caught fire, Tyler said.

Mark Kevin Rowe, 49, Tyler Kevin Rowe, 4, and Caleb Andrew Rowe, 11, also were passengers in the Cherokee.

All four died at the scene "as a result of the impact and the fire," Tyler said.

The pickup was driven by Steven Andrew Boyce, 20, of Winchester. Boyce was taken to Winchester Medical Center.

Tyler did not know the extent of Boyce's injuries.

Boyce has been charged with driving under the influence, one count of involuntary manslaughter and underage possession of alcohol, Tyler said. Boyce is being held without bond, Tyler said.

The crash is being investigated by Trooper M.C. Gremillion.

The Virginia State Police and the reconstruction team, Frederick County Sheriff's Office and local fire and rescue all responded to scene, Tyler said.

Northbound lanes of U.S. 11 were being reopened to traffic by 5 p.m., Tyler said.

For further developments, visit nvdaily.com or read the print edition of The Northern Virginia Daily.