Driver sober, mechanical fault investigated

The initial toxicology report for the driver who allegedly crashed her SUV into a West Portal sidewalk, killing a family of four, did not show she was impaired, The Standard has learned. The police are now checking whether the Mercedes has a technical defect.

The revelations provide a glimpse into the otherwise opaque criminal investigation that has taken place since police arrested 78-year-old driver Mary Fong Lau in connection with the March 16 crash. Since that tragic day, residents, business owners, City Hall and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency have argued over how and whether to redesign the intersection of Lenox Way and Ulloa Street where the incident occurred.

Even as these disputes continue, the public is still in the dark about what led to Lau’s vehicle allegedly crashing into the Oliveira-Pinto family. However, the clean initial toxicology report appears to rule out impairment, a cause of many vehicle accidents.

After the collision, the San Francisco Police Department arrested Lau on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter, reckless driving causing bodily harm and other traffic violations. Prosecutors initially have 72 hours to file charges against a suspect after an arrest. In this case, law enforcement released Lau pending further investigation. Prosecutors have three years to file charges if they decide to do so.

Lau has now been released from custody and is cooperating with the police. She gave them at least one interview.