The Andover, Massachusetts, community is mourning Samir Naili, 35, and his 8-year-old daughter, Kashmira Naili, who were killed in a fiery crash on Route 28 in North Reading late Saturday night, August 22, 2026. Authorities said the father and daughter were traveling in the same vehicle when it was struck at a red light.

According to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office, the collision occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m. near the intersection of North and Main streets. A Honda HR-V carrying Samir and Kashmira was stopped at a traffic light when an Acura MDX traveling at a high rate of speed crashed into it. The Honda caught fire following the impact.

First responders and a Good Samaritan attempted to reach the occupants of the burning vehicle, but the flames spread rapidly. Samir and his daughter were pronounced dead at the scene.

Samir Naili Remembered as a Loving Father

Family members have described Samir as a devoted father who loved music and enjoyed teaching his daughter.

His mother said Samir and Kashmira had left their Andover home that night to get milk. What had begun as an ordinary family errand ended in a devastating tragedy.

For relatives and friends, Samir’s death represents the loss of a father whose life centered heavily around his daughter and family.

Kashmira Naili Was Preparing for Third Grade

Kashmira was an 8-year-old student in the Andover Public Schools system and was preparing to begin third grade at South School.

School officials shared the news with the school community after receiving permission from the family. Kashmira’s grandmother described her as beautiful, intelligent, empathetic and kind, saying she was always willing to support her classmates and friends.

The school district has made crisis-support resources available to students, staff and families following the tragedy.

What Happened in the North Reading Crash?

Investigators said Matthew Sweeney, 21, of Paxton, was driving an Acura MDX at a high rate of speed when it struck the Honda carrying Samir and Kashmira.

Sweeney was arrested at the scene and faces charges including two counts of felony motor vehicle homicide, operating under the influence and operating to endanger. He pleaded not guilty in Woburn District Court on Monday and was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation before a bail hearing.

Authorities allege that alcohol and speed were factors in the crash. The charges are allegations, and Sweeney remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Witnesses Tried to Help

The aftermath of the collision was described as chaotic, with emergency responders and bystanders attempting to rescue the father and daughter from the burning Honda.

A nearby business owner told reporters that firefighters and others tried to break into the vehicle after police asked whether anyone remained inside. The fire intensified extremely quickly, making rescue efforts difficult.

Kashmira’s grandmother later expressed gratitude toward the first responders and bystanders who attempted to help despite the dangerous conditions.

Andover Community Mourns

The deaths of Samir and Kashmira have deeply affected the Andover community, particularly the South School community where Kashmira was preparing to begin another year.

School leaders have urged students and families to support one another while grief counselors and mental-health personnel remain available.

For the Naili family, the tragedy has taken away a father and daughter whose lives were closely connected. Samir is being remembered for his devotion to Kashmira, while Kashmira is remembered as a young girl known for kindness, empathy and concern for others.

Their deaths have left family members, friends, classmates, teachers and neighbors grieving a devastating loss.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

Funeral, visitation and memorial-service details for Samir Naili and Kashmira Naili have not been publicly confirmed in the information available for this report.

Those arrangements should be shared by the family or an authorized funeral home when they are ready.

Disclaimer

This article is based on information publicly reported as of August 24, 2026. Details concerning the crash investigation and criminal charges may change as the legal process continues. Any allegations against the accused driver remain allegations unless established in court. Funeral and memorial information should be confirmed through the Naili family or an authorized representative.