The explanation of the correct answer is option 1: "met with".

The phrase "met with" in this context means that the victims encountered or came across an accident. It implies that the accident was unexpected and happened while they were on their way in the auto.

Option 2: "ran into" could also imply the victims encountering an accident, but it has a slightly different connotation. "Running into" something often implies a more forceful or accidental collision, like hitting or bumping into something or someone. In this scenario, the victims were not necessarily involved in the accident, but they came across it.

Option 3: "experienced" is a more general term and does not specifically convey the idea of encountering an accident. It could refer to any kind of experience, positive or negative, and doesn`t provide enough information to describe the situation accurately.

Option 4: "heard" suggests that the victims only heard about the accident, but it doesn`t imply their direct involvement or encounter with it. It doesn`t convey the same level of direct experience as "met with" in this context.

In conclusion, option 1: "met with" is the most appropriate choice to indicate that the victims encountered an accident while traveling in the auto