The families of a man and a woman who lost their lives in a tragic hit-and-run accident in Oakland have expressed their devastation over the sudden loss. According to reports, the two victims were a couple who were on their way to church with a friend when the accident occurred.
The victims have been identified by their relatives as Derrick Shaw, a 64-year-old resident of Richmond, and Vera Hampton, a 67-year-old from Antioch.
On Sunday, just before 10 a.m., police reported that Shaw was driving his white SUV on 73rd Avenue in East Oakland and was about to make a left turn onto Holly Street when a driver in a stolen black sedan crashed into the passenger side of the SUV, where his fiancee was seated. The couple died at the scene of the accident.
A 48-year-old friend who was sitting in the back seat was taken to the hospital for treatment of his injuries and is expected to survive.
Witnesses informed the police that the suspect initially fled the scene on foot.
"For someone to think they can escape after taking someone's life, that is devastating. It is heart-wrenching for anyone," said Shantarika, Shaw's daughter.
The police located the driver near the scene and arrested him for the fatal hit-and-run. Investigators have identified the suspect as a 25-year-old man from Oakland.
It is still unknown whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
Shantarika has some words for the suspect: "I hope this experience teaches you something, because nobody deserved to die that way."
She described her father as a kind man who not only supported his family but also the people who worked for him and others in the community. He worked as a security guard and later founded his own security company.
Shantarika wants the suspect to serve a prison sentence, reflect on his actions, and feel remorse. She seeks justice for her father and his fiancee, Vera Hampton, who left behind children and grandchildren.
Additionally, Shaw had planned to celebrate his 65th birthday on October 8th, and both he and Hampton were excited for their upcoming marriage. Shantarika is raising funds to help with funeral expenses.
Originally posted at Abogados de Accidentes
