A driver involved in a tragic accident in San Francisco, where he hit a bus stop and killed a couple along with their two infants, has received a sentence of probation. This outcome has generated anger from the victims’ families.
Mary von Lau, aged 80, is charged with crashing into Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, his wife Matilde Ramos, and their two young children in March 2024, which resulted in the deaths of the entire family and left others seriously hurt.
On Friday, after entering a no contest plea, Lau was sentenced to two years of probation and had his driving license suspended for three years.
Before pleading, Lau faced four counts of vehicular manslaughter, each potentially carrying a sentence of 15 years to life in prison.
Judge Bruce Chan, while issuing the sentence, considered Lau’s age, her lack of prior legal history, and her remorseful demeanor. He quoted her heartfelt apology in court: “I want to say to my whole family: I’m sorry. I’m sorry.”
The family was reportedly waiting for a bus in the West Portal neighborhood of San Francisco, intending to visit the zoo, when they were struck at a high speed by Lau’s vehicle.
The couple and their children, 1-year-old Joaquin and 2-month-old Kau, lost their lives in this devastating incident.
Prosecutors indicated that Lau was driving over 110 mph in a residential area at the time of the crash, according to reports. This situation has ignited outrage from the victims’ family and the wider community, as many feel the sentence does not adequately reflect the enormity of what happened.
Olivera’s sister expressed her sentiments to the media, mentioning that the family was simply heading to the zoo to celebrate their anniversary that morning. She emphasized that the repercussions of Lau’s actions seem far too lenient compared to the tragedy they caused.
