SAN FRANCISCO – Relatives of the family of four killed in a horrific crash on Saturday in San Francisco’s West Portal neighborhood have released their first statement about their loss. Meanwhile, the driver who struck the family has been released from the hospital.
The father, Diego Cardoso de Oliveira and their toddler son, Joaquim, were killed when a white Mercedes SUV plowed into them at a bus stop near the intersection of Ulloa Street and Lenox Way. The mother, Matilde, died a day later. Their infant, 3-month-old Cauê, spent days in the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Sadly, San Francisco police on Wednesday announced the baby, who had been the sole survivor, succumbed to his injuries.
Family members say the family of four was waiting for a bus on their way to the zoo. A spokesperson for relatives of the family issued a statement that in part read: “Little Cauê was a fighter and our hero; his organs were donated and will serve to save the lives of other children.”
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The family killed by a driver in San Francisco’s West Portal neighborhood on March 16, 2024.
The family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the first responders, fire, police and the hospitals who cared for everyone.
“We loved Diego, Matilde, Joaquim, and Cauê deeply and are sure the love they showed to their family and friends will serve as their legacy,” the relatives’ statement read. The family also expressed gratitude to the parents’ employers Apple Inc. and RSA films for their help and support during a difficult time.
The family’s statement said they had no further information to share at this time and respectfully asked for privacy as they grieve.
Mary Fong Lau, 78, who was arrested by police on Sunday, has been released from the hospital and from police custody. Her attorney said this is a difficult time for Lau and her family.
“We are thankful that the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office is performing a thorough investigation of this incident,” Lau’s attorney Sam Geller said on Thursday. “We ask for privacy for the family at this time.”
Lau was booked Sunday on suspicion of three felony counts of vehicular manslaughter, driving the wrong way, reckless driving and driving at an unsafe speed.
Two large memorials for the family at the scene of the crash continue to grow. Flowers, candy, cards, and stuffed animals are piling up as the community continues to grieve this tragic loss.
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