A tragic incident in New York has claimed the lives of a British mother and her two young daughters, leaving the community in mourning.
The Fatal Crash
Natasha Saada, a 34-year-old woman originally from Mill Hill, north London, was walking home from a synagogue with her daughters, Diana, eight, and Deborah, five, when they were struck by a car in Brooklyn. The horrific crash occurred just after 1pm on Ocean Parkway, a roadway known for its dangers, and resulted in the immediate deaths of the mother and her daughters. Natasha’s four-year-old son, Philip, was also involved in the collision and is currently in critical condition.
The Driver and Charges
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Miriam Yarimi, 32, allegedly stated, “I have the devil in me,” following the incident. Yarimi, who is reported to be a wigmaker, crashed her Audi after first colliding with an Uber vehicle, forcing it off the road and into the path of Natasha and her children. Yarimi has been charged with multiple offenses, including criminal negligent homicide, manslaughter, and assault in the second degree. She had a troubling driving record, with over 93 traffic violations, including 20 speeding tickets, accumulating more than $10,000 in fines.
Community Response
The crash has elicited a strong reaction from local residents and officials. A witness described the sound of the impact as akin to an “earthquake,” prompting an immediate call to emergency services. First responders arrived on the scene within minutes, providing critical care to the victims. A memorial has since been established near the site of the tragedy, adorned with candles and flowers, as community members express their grief and support.
Statements from Officials
New York City Mayor Eric Adams characterized the incident as a “tragic accident of Shakespearean proportion,” emphasizing the pain felt not only by the family but also within the tight-knit community. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch condemned the circumstances surrounding the crash, stating, “This was a horrific tragedy caused by someone who shouldn’t have been on the road.”
Funeral and Family Support
A funeral for Natasha and her daughters was held shortly after the incident, and they were laid to rest in Jerusalem. Natasha’s husband, Sidney, remains in New York to care for their injured son. Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet from Mill Hill Synagogue traveled to support the grieving family, noting the profound loss felt by the community.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash, looking into potential factors such as speeding or intoxication. The incident has sparked renewed calls for legislative changes aimed at curbing reckless driving in Brooklyn.
As the community mourns this devastating loss, many are left to grapple with the consequences of this tragic event and its impact on their lives.
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