Drunk Driver Kills Father, Daughter in Fiery Crash

A devastating collision on Route 28 on Saturday night claimed the lives of Samir Naili, 35, and his 8-year-old daughter, Kashmira Naili. They were stationary at a traffic light when their Honda HR-V was struck from behind by a speeding Acura MDX, allegedly driven by Matthew R. Sweeney, 21. The impact caused the victims' vehicle to burst into flames, and tragically, both father and daughter were pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have charged Sweeney with multiple offenses, including two counts of motor vehicle homicide while drunk and speeding. His defense attorney indicated Sweeney has no memory of the crash, citing a history of mental health issues, including bipolar disorder, and involuntary hospitalizations. Sweeney has pleaded not guilty and is undergoing a mental health evaluation.

Evidence at the scene included open alcoholic beverages in Sweeney's vehicle. Prior to the fatal crash, police had been alerted to Sweeney's erratic driving, with reports of him speeding over 100 mph and driving recklessly. The Andover officer who pursued Sweeney witnessed the fatal collision and immediately took him into custody, then attempted to render aid to the victims.

Kashmira Naili was an incoming third-grader at South Elementary School in Andover. The community is in mourning, with a makeshift memorial forming near the crash site. The incident has also highlighted Sweeney's past legal troubles, including an arrest for assault in May 2025. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.