Sadly Owner Passes Away In Car Crash Leaving His Dog Orphaned

Gemini, who miraculously escaped any harm during the accident is now seeking a home.

Friday tragedy struck on Interstate 95 when a middle aged man, from Palm Beach County, aged 56 and his beloved canine companion were involved in a devastating car crash. Unfortunately the driver, identified as Sam Sonmez tragically lost his life. However Gemini, his dog emerged unscathed. Now finds herself without an owner.


Gemini has been entrusted to the care of Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control for the time being as they diligently assess her future.

According to Sonmezs colleagues Gemini was his companion. Would accompany him to work every single day. Their heart wrenching accounts reveal that he had no family to take in Gemini after his passing leaving them with the hope that one of them could step forward as her guardian. Unfortunately it seems unlikely that this wish will come true.




Joy Silver, one of Sonmezs coworkers fondly describes Gemini as a soul who showed immense devotion towards her father. In an effort to provide some comfort for Gemini Silver is exploring the possibility of obtaining some of Sonmezs belongings so that the scent of her owner can be retained. It is known that Sonmez resided in the Lake Worth area.

Dave Walesky, the director of Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control shares that Gemini's an eight year old mix, between a Chow Chow and Labrador Retriever.


In conclusion Gemini finds herself in need of a loving home where she can heal from the tragedy that befell her and continue spreading joy with her presence."At the moment we're eagerly awaiting the arrival of a family member, a friend or anyone, with a connection who can step forward and provide this wonderful animal with a bright future " expressed Walesky.




Local foster organizations have reached out to animal services expressing their interest. Once Gemini is released from the countys hold she will become available for adoption as stated by Walesky. Animal services will facilitate communication between the sanctuaries. Determine whether they are keen on meeting Gemini and willing to adopt her.




Walesky emphasized that Gemini displays some signs of fearfulness which's understandable given her circumstances in a large shelter. He likened it to an environment.

"After she becomes familiar with her surroundings and settles in she has the potential to be a dog " assured Walesky.

Jill Wentzel, an animal advocate from Michigan brought Geminis story to WPTVs attention by sharing it on Facebook.


Wentzel mentioned that she is working closely with Sonmezs colleagues as two rescues in South Florida, namely X Port Paws and My Why Rescue. Their collaborative efforts aim to identify a home and a forever home, for Gemini.