Virginia Marine Biologist Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Hamptons Real Estate Agent

A Virginia woman was taken into custody following a tragic hit-and-run that resulted in the death of high-profile Hamptons real estate agent Sara Burack. The incident occurred on a foggy evening on Montauk Highway, where Burack, 40, was walking along the roadside pushing a large pink suitcase when she was struck by a vehicle.

The driver, Amanda Kempton, a 32-year-old marine biologist, initially believed she had hit a traffic cone, according to her attorney. Kempton’s vehicle, which had visible front-end damage, was later located at her family’s home after authorities traced it using license plate data. The area’s foggy conditions and Kempton’s failure to see the victim contributed to her mistaken belief and leaving the scene.

Following the accident, Kempton drove to a friend’s residence and discovered Burack’s suitcase lodged underneath her car. Authorities confirmed her involvement through surveillance data. Kempton’s family posted collateral to secure her release from detention, set at $100,000 bail. She faces serious charges, including leaving the scene of a fatal accident, which could carry a potential prison sentence of up to seven years.

Her court appearance was marked by her emotional response, with tears in her eyes as she maintained her innocence. The prosecution described her as a flight risk, emphasizing she had been planning to return to Virginia for a wedding. Kempton grew up in Virginia, with academic credentials in microbiology and marine biology, and had been working at a summer camp in Georgia.

Burack, known for starring in the reality series “Million Dollar Beach House,” was observed walking outside a designated area while pulling her suitcase when she was struck. The incident has devastated the local real estate community and highlighted the dangers of roads at night under foggy conditions.