What do you say to someone who just killed a person?

My uncle wrote me (and whole family) to tell us that my aunt was driving to work last night and struck a drunk pedestrian who stumbled into the street.

The scene is described as an unlit, curve, he was wearing all black, and she was traveling 25 MPH - a total accident, however within an hour the man died.

Ironically my aunt is a nurse and has been for 20+ years, she was driving to the hospital for her night shift. She is healer and care giver so this accident has devastated her.

I'm lost for words and still in shock myself. How would you reply to such a terrible email and what do you say?

"My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. If there is any way I can help practically or in any other way please let me know, otherwise I will respect your privacy".

Tell him you are so sorry to have learned of this tragedy. Inquire into your aunt's mental state. Tell them you love them and support them and your thoughts and wishes are with them during this terrible time.

Not much else you can do...

You say "I'm sorry that you had this accident, but it is important to remember that it was an accident, and that it could have happened to anybody. Let me know if there is anything I can do for you." Send it with some flowers.

Well, there's not much you can say or do other than being there for her emotionally. She needs to get into therapy because that is an extremely traumatic event. I'm curious as to how the police are handling this? Since it was an accident, are they still going to charge her with vehicular manslaughter? Ugh, what a horrible situation to be in. I hope it all works out for her.

It wasn't her fault.So just try to console her.After all she tries to save lives not take them.Tell her it wasn't her fault.Let her know that you are there for her if she needs to talk. Hug her.That's terrible,But accidents do happen.

I am so sorry that this happened. Please let "aunt" know she is in our prayers.