Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett expressed sorrow for the community following a tragic incident where a three-year-old girl lost her life and a 31-year-old woman was injured in a pedestrian accident near a plaza on Thursday afternoon. The authorities responded to the scene at Cedar Street around 12:50 p.m. ET after receiving reports of the pedestrians being struck.
Both victims were taken to a nearby hospital with severe, life-threatening injuries. Regrettably, the three-year-old passed away, while the 31-year-old woman from Cambridge sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle, a 75-year-old man from Cambridge, was unharmed.
This unfortunate event comes just three weeks after another pedestrian tragedy on Nov. 20, where a 34-year-old woman was fatally hit while walking at the intersection of Langs Drive and Industrial Road in Cambridge.
The victim has been identified as Sthephanie Palao Eduardo de Amat y Leon by friends and family on social media and in fundraising efforts for her family. She was a married mother of two. A 75-year-old woman from Cambridge has been charged with careless driving causing death in connection with the incident.
Mayor Liggett emphasized the profound impact of these losses on the entire community, especially during a holiday season known for family gatherings. She extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and emphasized the community’s solidarity. The pain of these tragedies is deeply felt by all, including first responders and witnesses.
The police are actively investigating the fatal collision and are seeking witnesses or any relevant footage to aid in their inquiries.
Authorities are reminding both pedestrians and drivers to exercise caution, particularly near crosswalks and school zones. Drivers are advised to reduce speed in residential areas, stay vigilant for pedestrians, and avoid distractions while pedestrians are encouraged to utilize designated crosswalks, wait for vehicles to stop, and establish eye contact with drivers before crossing.