Beachwood, Ohio — A Father’s Day family meal turned tragic when a vehicle allegedly driven by an unlicensed teenager crashed into the outdoor dining area of an Ohio restaurant, killing a 3-year-old girl and leading to the arrests of both the alleged driver and her father.
According to investigators, the deadly collision occurred Sunday afternoon at City Barbeque in Beachwood, a suburb east of Cleveland, where families had gathered to celebrate the holiday.
The victim, identified as Margot Miller-Wilkins, was dining with her family when the vehicle entered the restaurant’s patio area.
SUV Crashed Into Outdoor Dining Area
Police said the incident happened at approximately 1:30 p.m. in the restaurant’s parking lot.
Investigators allege that 18-year-old Jasmine McFadden was behind the wheel of a 2015 Nissan Rogue when she attempted to reverse the vehicle.
According to a probable cause affidavit, the SUV traveled backward over a curb, struck a fence, and continued into the outdoor seating area where several people were seated.
Margot was among those struck during the collision.
Emergency calls made immediately after the crash captured the panic at the scene.
“A car just reversed to us at a restaurant and my daughter has been hit by the car,” Margot’s father told a 911 dispatcher.
When asked about her condition, he reportedly replied that she was bleeding and that family members had rushed her inside the restaurant while waiting for emergency responders.
Despite lifesaving efforts, the child later died at a nearby hospital.
Police Say Teen Did Not Have a Driver’s License
According to investigators, Jasmine McFadden did not possess a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash.
She has been charged with aggravated vehicular homicide in connection with the fatal incident.
Police allege that after the collision, 61-year-old Kenneth McFadden, Jasmine’s father, falsely claimed to officers that he had been driving the SUV.
Investigators later determined that claim was not accurate, according to authorities. As a result, Kenneth McFadden was arrested on an obstruction charge.
Court records indicate Jasmine McFadden is being held on a $100,000 bond, while her father was released after posting a $10,000 bond.
Community Mourns Young Victim
The Beachwood Police Department offered condolences to the victim’s family following the tragedy.
“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 fatal crash has deeply affected the local community as investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation progresses.
Investigation Continues
Kenneth McFadden is well known in Northeast Ohio for his college basketball career at Cleveland State University, where he helped lead the team to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 in 1986.
He is also a member of the university’s athletic Hall of Fame, and his jersey was retired in recognition of his accomplishments.
However, investigators emphasized that the current case remains focused on determining responsibility for Sunday’s fatal collision.
Police continue gathering evidence as the criminal proceedings move forward.
Meanwhile, family members and loved ones are mourning the heartbreaking loss of a little girl whose Father’s Day celebration ended in tragedy.
What are your thoughts on roadway safety in busy restaurant parking lots? Do you believe additional safety barriers could help prevent similar incidents? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.