Demanding justice for the four lives taken at West Portal
March 16, 2024, marked one of the most tragic pedestrian incidents in San Francisco’s history.
Diego and Matilde chose San Francisco to raise their family. Tragically, on their wedding anniversary, their lives—and the lives of their two young sons—were suddenly taken.
Sign the Petition
Demanding Justice for the Four Lives Taken at West Portal
To Hon. Bruce Chan, San Francisco Superior Court Judge
Public trust in justice requires accountability.
More than 70mph in a 25mph zone, striking a public bus stop, requires a clear admission of guilt.
Accountability begins with:
• A clear admission of guilt
• A sincere expression of remorse to the families
• An honest explanation of what led to this tragedy
• Meaningful responsibility, including house arrest and real community service
Justice is not only about jail:
Remorse must be proven through meaningful action.
Current Situation:
At the most recent pre-hearing, Judge Bruce Chan, outlined a preliminary sentence.
• No full public trial
• 2 to 3 years driving ban (two years have already passed)
• No possession or purchase of firearms
This leaves an important question for the community:
Is this a proportionate outcome for a tragedy of this magnitude?
Letters from the Family to Court
These statements were submitted to the court to provide a record of the family's loss. To date, these pleas for accountability have been met with silence.
Community voices matter.
Share a respectful letter to help the Court understand the impact of this loss and the importance of meaningful accountability.
After two years of hearings, what remains is profound sadness and a deep sense of injustice—but also the hope to be heard and to see justice served.
On March 20, the Court will hold the final hearing and sentencing for Mary Fong Lau. A full trial now appears unlikely, as the right to a jury trial was waived and the decision rests solely with Judge Bruce Chan, who has indicated he may still reconsider his position.
Whether you knew Diego, Matilde, Joaquim, and Cauê personally, or were among the many moved by this tragedy through the news, your voice matters to the Court.
Key points for your letter
Share your perspective. Begin by stating whether you are a friend, a neighbor, or a concerned member of the community.
Write from the heart. You do not need legal expertise—simply speak about the profound loss of this family and the collective trauma they have left behind.
Address the impact on our city. Share how this tragedy has changed your sense of safety as a pedestrian in San Francisco.
Explain why accountability matters. Express why you believe a firm message of justice is necessary to begin healing and to honor those we lost.
Letters submitted through this form are for official court delivery only and will not be published on this website.
West Portal Vigil
Join us as we come together for a candlelight vigil in memory of Diego, Matilde, Joaquim, and Cauê.
Two years later, in the same week and at the same location, we gather in remembrance and unity—with hope for a meaningful decision in the days ahead.
All are welcome. Bring a candle, bring love, and stand with the community in memory, reflection, and hope.
Stand With Us in Court.
Join us —our presence in the courtroom is as a powerful reminder of the lives lost and that the community has not forgotten.
