3 Dead After Terrible Crash

(USNewsBreak.com) – Millions of car crashes occur in the United States each year, according to NHTSA data. They contribute as one of the leading causes of death, with tens of thousands of people dying annually as a result. Sometimes, those accidents involve pedestrians, as happened in San Francisco recently when a vehicle crashed into a bus stop where several people were waiting to board the next arrival. Sadly, three died, and an infant is in the hospital fighting for his life.

The San Francisco Police Department issued a statement on Saturday, March 16, detailing the accident. Just before 12:15 p.m., officers and firefighters responded to the junction of Lennox Way and Ulloa Street after receiving reports of a vehicle vs. pedestrians accident. They treated four victims, employing life-saving measures for some, but first responders declared two people, a man and a toddler, dead at the scene.

Car crashes into a West Portal bus stop in San Francisco leaving 3 dead, infant injured https://t.co/GOD3v4mZeg

— TheDailyTimes (@TheDailyTimes) March 18, 2024

A third victim, a woman, died the next day at the hospital. Doctors still listed an infant in critical condition. Media reports later revealed the family of four was waiting to board the bus for a trip to the zoo. First responders also took the driver of the SUV that crashed into them to the hospital. The male victim’s name was Diego Oliveira,, while his wife was identified as Matilde. The toddler who died was named Joaquin, and the baby in the hospital is identified as Caue.

The San Francisco Police Department Traffic Unit has been investigating the accident, and on March 19, reports revealed that authorities arrested 78-year-old Mary Fong Lau on multiple charges, including but not limited to vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving.

There is a growing memorial at the junction to honor the victims, and many local area residents who knew the family are speaking out. According to reports, Rogerio Falerio said the two adult victims “were an amazing couple,” full of love who “took care of the kids” and “had no issues with anything.” Jodie Medeiros, an advocate with Walk San Francisco, said the nonprofit, which focuses on pedestrian safety, organized a group vigil, which took place on Monday.