In a devastating incident at the Muni Metro West Portal Station in San Francisco last weekend, a young family lost their lives while waiting to catch a bus to visit the zoo. The victims have now been identified as a 1-year-old baby named Joaquin and his parents. The family's sole survivor is now the infant, who remains in critical condition at a hospital.

The heartbreaking incident occurred when a white Mercedes SUV driven by 78-year-old Mary Fong Lau crashed into the bus stop, striking the victims at approximately 12:13 p.m. Authorities have arrested Lau on multiple charges, including three counts of felony manslaughter, reckless driving with bodily injury, driving the wrong way on a divided highway, and speeding. Meanwhile, Lau herself is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the accident.

The San Francisco Police Department continues to investigate the cause of the collision, with the incident leaving the community in shock. At a vigil held on Monday evening, hundreds gathered to mourn the tragic loss of baby Joaquin, his mother, and his father. Flowers, stuffed animals, and candles were placed at the growing memorial at the bus stop, attended by Police Chief Bill Scott, Supervisor Myrna Melgar, and saddened community members.

Supervisor Melgar expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing that no family should ever have to experience such loss. She vowed to work closely with the city's public works department, SFMTA, and local residents to address safety concerns for pedestrians and bus riders in the West Portal neighborhood.

Jodie Medeiros, the executive director of Walk San Francisco, described the incident as one of the worst pedestrian tragedies in the city's history. This marks the second child pedestrian fatality in less than a year, following the death of a 4-year-old girl who was fatally struck by a vehicle at an intersection near Oracle Park baseball stadium on August 15, 2023.

As investigations into the accident continue, the community grapples with profound grief and a heightened focus on pedestrian safety. Efforts are underway to understand the cause of the collision, while discussions are being held to implement measures that will enhance safety for pedestrians and bus riders around the West Portal bus station.

The loss of this young family has undoubtedly left a profound impact on the community, serving as a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for continued efforts to prevent such devastating accidents.