For Immediate Release: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Gaithersburg, MD – 19-year-old Zaher Qais, of Silver Spring, has been charged in connection with a fatal collision that occurred on January 14, 2026.
At approximately 11:19 a.m., Montgomery County Police 3rd District officers and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services responded to the intersection of Lockwood Drive and Northwest Drive in Silver Spring for the report of a collision involving two vehicles.
The investigation by the Collision Reconstruction Unit determined that a white 2017 Lexus was traveling southbound on Lockwood Drive, attempted to cross a double yellow line to pass a stopped bus, and struck a black 2025 Toyota in the intersection. The Toyota began to lose control before leaving the roadway and crashing into a wooden utility pole.
15-year-old Tayeba Rezaie, of Pasadena, MD, died as a result of injuries sustained in the collision.
Upon completion of the investigation, CRU investigators determined Qais was at fault and has been charged with negligent manslaughter by vehicle and other related traffic offenses.
He is currently being held without bond at the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit.
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Release ID: 26-064
Media Contact: DBartels
Categories: fatal-collision