An 18-year-old woman has been charged after she allegedly drove into the outdoor dining area of City Barbeque in Beachwood and fatally struck a 3-year-old who was there eating with their family. Her father, an iconic Cleveland State basketball player in the 1980s, has also been charged.
According to Beachwood Police, the crash happened just after 1:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Pavilion Shopping Center.
Shaker Heights Municipal Court records state that 18-year-old Jasmine McFadden, of Euclid, was traveling in reverse through the shopping center in a 2015 Nissan Rogue when the vehicle left the road, went over a curb, hit a fence and went into the dining area, striking several patrons, including the toddler.
The 3-year-old was transported to a nearby hospital but later died from their injuries. According to court records, the child has been identified as Margot Miller-Wilkins.
"It's tough, tough for everybody involved, a horiffic event," said Beachwood Police Chief Daniel Grispino.
McFadden has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, a second-degree felony. According to police, she was driving without a license.
"Unlicensed driver, has never possessed a State of Ohio or outside the state of Ohio drivers license," Chief Grispino said adding she did not possess a learners permit either.
Police said her father, 61-year-old Ken "Mouse" McFadden, who was in the vehicle, told officers he was driving when the crash occurred. Officers later determined that wasn't the case.
"The initial investigator looked at surveillance video and they determined that Kenneth McFadden actually exited the passenger side of the vehicle after the crash.," Grispino said.
McFadden has been charged with obstructing official business and wrongful entrustment, both misdemeanors.
Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas records show that Jasmine McFadden was given a $100,000 bond on Monday. A future court date has not been set.
Ken McFadden is scheduled to be arraigned on June 29 in Shaker Heights Municipal Court.
A loss of a young child like this is difficult on the first responders.
"We are human as well. They're dealing with it the best they can, the fire and police personnel. We actually had the county Peer Support team come out today to debrief everybody that was on scene and provide them all available resources that we can to assist them in any way they can," Grispino said.
On Tuesday, Beachwood Police issued the following statement:
"The Beachwood Police Department extends its deepest condolences to the child's family and loved ones. We also recognize the impact of this incident on family members, witnesses, first responders, restaurant employees, and others affected by this tragedy.
The department respectfully requests that the public honor the privacy of the victim's family during this difficult time."
Tuesday afternoon, the restaurant had the following message posted on its door:
City Barbeque released the following statement on Wednesday:
"We are heartbroken by the tragic incident that occurred at our Beachwood restaurant and extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s loved ones and everyone affected.
The safety and well-being of our guests, team members and neighbors remain our highest priority. We are cooperating fully with local authorities as they continue their investigation and are focused on supporting our team and community during this difficult time.
The restaurant is currently closed, and we will share updates regarding reopening as appropriate.”
