Tragic Loss in Brooklyn: Mother and Two Daughters Taken in Devastating Accident

On a serene Shabbos afternoon, as families in the Flatbush community were returning from shul, a devastating event shattered the tranquility. A mother and her two young daughters were tragically struck and killed by a vehicle, leaving the community in profound mourning.​

The incident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. near the intersection of Ocean Parkway and Quentin Road. The victims, identified as Mrs. Natasha (Sarah) Saada, 35, and her daughters, Diana, 8, and Deborah, 5, were crossing the street when they were struck. Mrs. Saada’s 4-year-old son, Pinchas Raphael ben Sarah, was also injured and remains in critical condition at Maimonides Medical Center. The family was walking home from synagogue, a cherished Shabbos tradition, when the tragedy unfolded.​

According to police reports, the driver of the vehicle, Miriam Yarimi, 32, was operating an Audi with a suspended license.The sequence of events began when Yarimi’s vehicle collided with a Toyota Camry operating as an Uber. The impact caused the Audi to veer into the crosswalk, where it struck the Saada family before overturning. Yarimi was taken to NYU Langone Hospital in stable condition and has since been charged with multiple offenses, including second-degree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and reckless driving. Authorities are investigating whether speed and failure to observe traffic signals were contributing factors.​

The driver of the Camry, a 62-year-old man, along with his passengers—a 35-year-old woman and three children aged between 4 and 12—sustained minor injuries and were treated at local hospitals. The Camry driver was reported to be in stable condition.​CBS News+1amNewYork+1

The Flatbush community, known for its close-knit and supportive nature, has been deeply affected by this tragedy.Neighbors and friends have expressed their grief and shock, remembering Mrs. Saada as a devoted mother and a pillar of the community. The family’s routine Shabbos walk home from shul turned into an unimaginable nightmare, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of communal support during such times.​

In response to the incident, Mayor Eric Adams addressed the community, describing the event as a “tragedy of Shakespearean proportions.” He emphasized the profound impact on the close-knit neighborhood and extended condolences to the grieving family. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch echoed these sentiments, stating, “This was a horrific tragedy caused by someone who shouldn’t have been on the road.” The authorities have pledged a thorough investigation to prevent such incidents in the future.​

The levaya (funeral) for Mrs. Saada and her daughters is scheduled for Sunday, with plans to transport their bodies to Eretz Yisrael for burial. The community is coming together to support the bereaved family, offering prayers, assistance, and comfort during this unimaginably difficult time. Tehillim is being recited for the recovery of Pinchas Raphael ben Sarah, and community members are encouraged to continue their prayers for his refuah shleimah.​

This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences that can arise from negligence. The Flatbush community, while mourning this immense loss, remains resilient, drawing strength from their faith and unity. As they navigate this tragedy, the collective support and compassion within the community stand as a testament to their enduring spirit.​

May the memories of Natasha (Sarah) Saada and her daughters, Diana and Deborah, be a blessing, and may Hashem grant comfort to their family and all who mourn their loss.