The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office says Jacqueline Badger Mars, 73, was behind the wheel of a Porsche SUV when it crossed the center line and hit a minivan on Friday. An 86-year-old passenger in the van, identified as Irene Ellisor of Huntsville, Texas, died at the scene. She was not wearing a seatbelt, officials said.
The heiress was also hospitalized with injuries but has since been released, according to a statement from a Mars spokesman.
Mars is the daughter of the candy company's founder and is ranked as the seventh richest woman in the world by Forbes Magazine.
"This tragedy has left Jacquie filled with sorrow for the loss of life and those who were injured in the accident. She would like to express her deepest condolences to the families involved," the statement read.
The accident remains under investigation.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
