At approximately 2:45 a.m. on Thursday, emergency responders were called to Montauk Highway in the vicinity of Villa Paul Restaurant in Hampton Bays. Officers found Burack unconscious at the scene. She was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Burack was a Southampton resident and a fixture in the Hamptons real estate scene. Her career took a public turn after her appearance in the 2020 Netflix series Million Dollar Beach House, which profiled high-end brokers working in the region. She had previously worked with Nest Seekers International, a firm specializing in luxury properties in New York City and the Hamptons.

Sara’s background in real estate stemmed from her roots in construction. In a 2020 interview with Hamptons.com, she spoke about growing up in a family involved in the commercial materials business. “I have always been intrigued by real estate projects,” she explained, adding that her transition into brokerage was inspired by time spent managing a summer rental property.

Police make arrest after fatal accident

Less than 24 hours after the fatal crash, investigators with the Southampton Town Police Department arrested Amanda Kempton, a 32-year-old woman from Virginia. Police announced the arrest on Friday, June 20, confirming Kempton had been charged with leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident, a class D felony under New York state law.

Authorities did not disclose how they identified Kempton as the suspect, nor have they released information about the vehicle involved. The investigation remains active, and law enforcement officials have not yet provided additional comment despite inquiries from members of the press.

Kempton is scheduled to be arraigned on Saturday, June 21. If convicted of the felony charge, she could face up to four years in state prison. It remains unclear whether additional charges will be filed as the case progresses through the court system.

Life, career remembered

Sara Burack was known not only for her television appearance but also for her sharp eye for high-end and oceanfront properties in the Hamptons. Over the last decade, she has built a notable presence in the regional real estate market. She said it was her deep connection to the Hamptons, where she spent half the year for the past 11 years, that led her to a successful career in luxury real estate.

Her passion for helping others find their dream homes was evident in the interviews and listings she shared. Her background in property management provided her with a unique understanding of what clients were looking for. Friends and colleagues frequently highlighted her professionalism and relentless drive.

The real estate community in the Hamptons expressed shock and sorrow following the news of her passing, remembering her as a talented broker and a generous spirit. As the investigation continues, many await further details about the circumstances that led to her tragic death.

Questions remain

As of Saturday, June 21, authorities have withheld specific information about the vehicle used in the crash. Such data typically includes make and model, license plate numbers, or how it was located. The lack of transparency has left the public and media seeking answers in a high-profile case involving a public figure.

Law enforcement’s silence may be strategic, aimed at preserving the integrity of an active investigation. However, in cases of public interest, it is common for pressure to mount for disclosures. The community hopes officials will shed more light on how the suspect was tracked down and what evidence connects her to the scene.

What is confirmed is that Kempton fled the scene after the crash -- a central component of the charge against her. In New York, leaving the site of an accident involving death is treated as a serious crime, with penalties reflecting the severity of harm and any element of avoidance or evasion.

Lessons to learn

1. Always stay at the scene of an accident. Fleeing the scene not only compounds the legal risks but also deprives victims of timely medical assistance. Whether or not a driver believes they are at fault, the law requires them to remain and assist when injury or death occurs.

2. Pedestrian awareness remains critical, even in quieter areas. This incident occurred in the early morning hours on a local highway. All pedestrians should use extreme caution when walking during low-visibility hours, but drivers equally bear the responsibility to stay alert and drive carefully.

3. Preventing tragedies should not rely on the victim alone. No matter the precautions taken by individuals, crime can happen to anyone. The blame lies solely with the person who committed the act, and our focus should be on justice and prevention through accountability.

Why this story matters

This story is a reminder of the dangers pedestrians face and the responsibilities of drivers on the road. A life was lost in a senseless act of negligence that could have been prevented by responsible behavior. It resonates deeply within the community, especially in an area where so many people walk and bike as part of daily life.

The fact that the victim was a public figure only intensifies the impact, putting a national lens on an issue that affects small communities everywhere. As the investigation continues, many hope Sara Burack’s legacy will lead to greater awareness and change in how hit-and-run cases are handled.

Her tragic death unites communities near and far in mourning -- and in calling for justice.