NORTH READING, Mass. — A 35-year-old father and his 8-year-old daughter were killed Saturday night when their SUV was struck from behind by a vehicle allegedly traveling at a high rate of speed on Route 28 in North Reading.
The victims were identified as Andover residents Samir Naili, 35, and his daughter, Kashmira Naili, 8.
The crash happened shortly before 11 p.m. near the intersection of Route 28 and North Street, according to investigators. Police said a Honda HR-V carrying Naili and his daughter was stopped at a red light when an Acura MDX driven by 21-year-old Matthew Sweeney of Paxton crashed into it.
The Honda caught fire after the collision. First responders and a Good Samaritan attempted to get the occupants out, but both victims died at the scene.
Sweeney Faces Multiple Charges
Sweeney was arrested at the scene and appeared in Woburn District Court on Monday.
He faces charges including two counts of motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence, operating to endanger and speeding in connection with the deaths, according to the latest court reporting.
Investigators allege Sweeney was driving at a high rate of speed before the crash. Court documents cited in local reporting say he was traveling at approximately 100 mph when he struck the stopped Honda.
A not-guilty plea was entered on Sweeney’s behalf.
Psychiatric Evaluation Ordered
During Monday’s hearing, defense attorney Kevin Mahoney told the court that Sweeney has a documented history of mental health issues and said his client has no recollection of the crash.
Mahoney also raised concerns about Sweeney’s competency and described a history of blackouts and periods of lost time.
After an initial evaluation, a forensic psychologist recommended that Sweeney undergo additional evaluation at Bridgewater State Hospital. The court ordered a 20-day psychiatric evaluation.
Sweeney’s bail was set at $250,000. He is expected to return to court after the evaluation.
Family Remembers Father and Daughter
Samir and Kashmira were from Andover, where the sudden loss has also affected the local community.
Kashmira was an Andover public school student who was preparing to begin third grade. Her family described her as kind, empathetic and deeply connected to her classmates and friends. Samir was remembered by his mother as a devoted father who loved music and enjoyed teaching his daughter.
Liz Powell-Naili, a family member, spoke about the devastating loss during the court proceedings.
“I do want him to be held accountable,” she said, describing Samir as her only son and Kashmira as her only granddaughter.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as the criminal case moves through court.
