Wednesday marked a pivotal moment as justice was served for the tragic loss of two bright souls, Ada Martinez Nolasco and Leeyan Yan, in a devastating crash that shook the Oakton High School community in June 2022. A jury reached a verdict of guilty for Usman Shahid, the driver charged in the accident, bringing closure to a painful chapter for their families and friends.
Ada Martinez Nolasco and Leeyan Yan, both students at Oakton High School, were taken from this world far too soon, leaving behind grieving families and a community in mourning. Their vibrant spirits and promising futures were cut short in a senseless tragedy that forever altered the lives of those who knew and loved them.
Shahid, who held only a learner’s permit at the time of the incident, faced two counts of involuntary manslaughter for his reckless actions behind the wheel. Prosecutors revealed that he was driving at speeds exceeding 80 mph when his vehicle collided with another car near Blake Lane and Five Oaks Road, just south of Oakton High School. The collision sent both cars spiraling out of control, tragically striking Ada, Leeyan, and another teenage pedestrian.
While the verdict brings a measure of accountability, it cannot undo the profound loss felt by Ada and Leeyan’s families, friends, and the broader community. Their absence leaves an irreplaceable void, and their memories will forever be cherished by those who knew them best.
As we reflect on the lives of Ada Martinez Nolasco and Leeyan Yan, let us hold onto the memories of their laughter, kindness, and the light they brought into the world. May their legacies serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with those we hold dear.
To the families and friends of Ada and Leeyan, our hearts are with you during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you as you navigate the grief of losing two remarkable individuals taken from us far too soon.
