Driving Lesson Ends in Unimaginable Tragedy After Car Plunges Into River, Killing Three Generations of One Family

A routine driving lesson ended in heartbreaking tragedy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, after a vehicle plunged into the Seekonk River, claiming the lives of three generations of the same family on the evening of Sunday, June 28.

Authorities identified the victims as 45-year-old Floridalma Arceno, her 22-year-old daughter, Linora Sucely Gomez, and Floridalma’s 2-year-old granddaughter, Ana Sofia Garcia Gomez. Their deaths have left family members, friends, and the local community mourning an unimaginable loss.

According to Floridalma’s husband, Josue Gomez, the family had gone out that evening so Floridalma could teach their daughter how to drive. What was meant to be a simple practice session quickly turned into a devastating emergency that would forever change the family’s lives.

Josue recalled receiving a frantic phone call from his wife during the lesson. In what would become the final moments they ever shared, Floridalma reportedly cried out, “It won’t brake… it won’t brake.”

Those heartbreaking words were the last he heard before the call ended.

Josue immediately rushed toward the Taft Street boat ramp after receiving the call, hoping he could reach his family in time. However, by the time he arrived near the 100 block of Taft Street, the vehicle had already disappeared beneath the waters of the Seekonk River.

Witnesses at the scene acted quickly in an effort to save the occupants. According to authorities, a nearby individual riding a jet ski attempted to reach the sinking vehicle but was unable to rescue those trapped inside before it submerged. Another witness immediately contacted 911, prompting a rapid response from police, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel.

Rescue crews worked tirelessly throughout the evening, searching the river for the submerged vehicle. As darkness fell and underwater conditions became increasingly dangerous, officials were forced to temporarily suspend recovery efforts. The search resumed early Monday morning with specialized dive teams returning to the scene.

After several hours of searching, divers located the vehicle beneath the water. Tragically, all three family members remained inside. Their bodies were carefully recovered and later transferred to the Rhode Island Office of the State Medical Examiner for further evaluation.

Investigators say Linora Sucely Gomez was behind the wheel of the vehicle when it entered the river. Although the family initially feared that a brake failure may have caused the crash, preliminary findings by investigators indicate the vehicle was mechanically sound, including its braking system. Police emphasized that there is currently no evidence of foul play and that the incident is being investigated as a tragic accident while authorities continue working to determine exactly what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and enter the water.

Police Chief Tina Goncalves described the incident as one of the most heartbreaking scenes responders can encounter, acknowledging the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on first responders as well as the community.

Meanwhile, Josue Gomez now faces the unimaginable reality of grieving the loss of his wife, daughter, and young granddaughter all at once. Family members have expressed profound sorrow as they remember three lives cut tragically short during what should have been an ordinary family outing.

As investigators continue piecing together the circumstances surrounding the crash, the Pawtucket community has rallied around the grieving family, offering condolences, prayers, and support during an incredibly difficult time. Friends and loved ones continue to honor the memories of Floridalma Arceno, Linora Sucely Gomez, and little Ana Sofia Garcia Gomez, whose tragic deaths have deeply touched all who have heard their story.