NORTH READING, MASS. (WHDH) - A 21-year-old Paxton man is facing criminal charges in connection with a crash in North Reading late Saturday night that left a man and a minor dead, officials said.
Officers responding to a reported crash on Route 28 around 10:45 p.m. determined Sweeney had been driving an Acura MDX at a high rate of speed when he slammed into a Honda HR-V that was stopped at a red light, according to a joint statement issued Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and North Reading Chief of Police Mark Zimmerman.
First responders and a Good Samaritan attempted to get the occupants out of the HR-V but the man and the minor inside were pronounced dead at the scene.
The victims were identified as Samir Naili, 35, and Kashmira Naili, 8.
In a statement, Andover Public Schools Superintendent Keith Taverna said, “It is with deep sadness and with the family’s permission that we inform you about a recent loss to the South School community. An incoming 3rd grade South School student was a passenger in a fatal car accident in North Reading on Saturday night. The incident remains under investigation and the district is following the lead of public safety officials before providing further information. We extend our deepest condolences and support to the victims and their family. We understand that this loss may bring a range of emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school community.”
The district’s crisis support team, made up of professionals trained to assist during difficult times, will be available to provide care and guidance to staff, students and families. APS Mental Health staff will be available at the South School on Monday August 24th and Tuesday August 25th from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for those who may need someone to talk with.
Sweeney is expected to be arraigned Monday in Woburn District Court on charges of felony motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence, and operating to endanger.
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