On a somber Wednesday afternoon near a bustling Woodside school, tragedy struck the Zhinin family when two sisters, Jael Zhinin, 16, and Leslie Zhinin, 8, were involved in a devastating hit-and-run collision.
The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. as the siblings were walking home together, their hearts still filled with the joy of celebrating the end of their school term.
Witnesses described a heart-wrenching scene as a vehicle, described as a dark sedan, struck Jael and Leslie while they were crossing a nearby intersection.
The impact sent both sisters tumbling to the ground, leaving Jael fatally injured and Leslie critically wounded.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where Jael was pronounced dead, while Leslie was immediately transported to the nearest hospital for urgent medical care.
Jael Zhinin, known for her bright smile and compassionate nature, was a beloved student at Woodside School, where she excelled academically and was admired by peers and teachers alike.
Her sudden passing has left the school community and her family devastated, grappling with the profound loss of a young life filled with promise and potential.
Leslie Zhinin, fighting for her life in the hospital, remains in critical condition, surrounded by loved ones who are praying for her recovery.
The tragic accident has sparked an outpouring of support from the community, with neighbors, classmates, and friends coming together to offer comfort and assistance to the grieving Zhinin family.
The driver responsible for the hit-and-run remains at large, prompting a citywide search and an appeal from law enforcement for any information that could lead to their apprehension.
The incident has reignited discussions about pedestrian safety and the need for greater vigilance on local roads, underscoring the devastating consequences of reckless driving.
As the Woodside community mourns the loss of Jael Zhinin and hopes for Leslie's recovery, they stand united in honoring the memory of a beloved sister and supporting her family through this unimaginably difficult time.