The recovery of Kristin Little’s car, nicknamed Penelope, after a deadly crash down an embankment in Yavapai County, Arizona, has brought closure and emotional reunions for her family and the recovery crew involved in the operation. Little tragically lost her life after her SUV plunged a thousand feet off a mountain on August 16, leaving her family devastated and searching for answers.
Wild West Off-Road Recovery, a specialized towing group, was called in to assist with recovering Little’s vehicle at the bottom of the cliff on August 20. The crew, led by Carl Girard, embarked on a two-day mission to retrieve Penelope from where it had landed after the fatal crash. Girard described the operation as unlike any other job he had done before, due to the emotional weight of the situation.
The recovery crew faced challenges during the operation, including obstacles such as trees and other vehicles that had also gone off the embankment. Despite the difficulties, the team persevered and eventually succeeded in bringing Penelope back to Thumb Butte Road, where Little’s family was waiting to be reunited with her beloved car.
The emotional impact of the recovery was palpable, with hugs, tears, and a sense of closure for Little’s family and the recovery crew. Girard shared that the connection they formed with Little’s family during the process made the recovery more than just a job – it became a deeply personal experience for everyone involved.
As the investigation into Little’s fatal crash continues, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office and her family are actively seeking drivers who may have witnessed the accident. Little’s mother, Jinger, believes that there were witnesses to the crash who may have valuable information about the events leading up to the tragedy. The search for these drivers is crucial in piecing together the circumstances of the accident and finding closure for Little’s family.
In addition to recovering Penelope, the recovery crew also discovered three other vehicles down the embankment, one of which posed an obstacle during the operation. The presence of these vehicles highlights the dangers of driving in mountainous terrain and serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices.
The recovery of Penelope and the ongoing investigation into Kristin Little’s death serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. The emotional reunion between Little’s family and her car is a testament to the lasting impact she had on those around her and the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew her.