Belmont Bleeds While City Sleeps—Demand Safer Streets Now

A Mercedes slammed into Darryl Mathis Jr.'s stalled car on the Major Deegan. Mathis called for help, then for an ambulance. The driver fled. Paramedics rushed Mathis to the hospital. He died. The killer behind the wheel vanished into the night.

NY Daily News reported on March 24, 2025, that Darryl Mathis Jr. was killed when a Mercedes-Benz rear-ended his disabled Ford on the Major Deegan Expressway. Mathis, stranded after his battery died, called friends for help. As one friend recounted, 'He called to get a jump, and after that, he got hit from behind, a hit-and-run.' The Mercedes driver fled the scene and has not been caught. Mathis was transported to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he died. The crash highlights the dangers faced by stranded motorists on city highways and the deadly consequences when drivers flee. No policy changes or enforcement actions were detailed in the article.

• Hit-And-Run Kills Stranded Bronx Motorist, NY Daily News, Published 2025-03-24

A black Mercedes slammed into a Ford on the Major Deegan. Both cars spun out. The Mercedes driver ran. The Ford driver died at St. Barnabas. Police closed the highway for hours. No arrests. The city’s roads stay deadly.

NY Daily News reported on March 22, 2025, that a 39-year-old driver was killed after a black Mercedes-Benz rear-ended his Ford Crown Victoria on the Major Deegan Expressway. The article states, “The hit-and-run driver responsible escaped on foot, police said.” Both vehicles lost control and crashed. Emergency services transported the victim to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he died. The Mercedes driver fled the scene, and no arrests have been made. Police closed the southbound lanes for several hours during the investigation. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of rear-end collisions and the persistent risk posed by hit-and-run drivers on New York City highways.

• Bronx Highway Hit-And-Run Kills Driver, NY Daily News, Published 2025-03-22

A sedan driver suffered neck injuries after backing unsafely into a stopped bus in the Bronx. The collision caused whiplash and right rear bumper damage. The bus driver remained unharmed with no vehicle damage reported.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 16:53 in the Bronx near East Fordham Road. The sedan, traveling north, was backing unsafely when it collided with a northbound bus stopped in traffic. The sedan's driver, a 25-year-old male, was injured with neck pain and whiplash but was not ejected and remained conscious. The contributing factor cited was 'Backing Unsafely' by the sedan driver. The bus driver, licensed and operating a 2010 bus, was not injured, and the bus sustained no damage. The sedan's right rear bumper was damaged at the point of impact. The report highlights driver error in vehicle backing maneuvers as the cause, with no mention of victim fault or pedestrian involvement.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4797717 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A moped slammed into a minivan in Soundview. Two teens thrown. One died. The other survived. The driver stayed. Police probe who had the right of way. Another young life lost on Bronx streets.

Gothamist (2025-02-25) reports a fatal crash at Metcalf Avenue and East 172nd Street in the Bronx. A 17-year-old, Juan Alexander Quizhpi Naranjo, drove a moped with a 14-year-old passenger when they collided with a Honda Odyssey. Both were thrown from the moped. Quizhpi Naranjo died at Jacobi Hospital; the girl survived. The minivan driver, 42, remained at the scene and faced no charges. NYPD's Collision Investigation Squad is still determining 'who had the right of way and whether a traffic violation played a role.' This marks the second traffic death this year in the 43rd Precinct, highlighting ongoing dangers for young road users.

• Bronx Teen Killed In Moped-Minivan Crash, Gothamist, Published 2025-02-25

Two SUVs collided head-to-tail on E 189 St in the Bronx. The driver of the rear vehicle suffered neck injuries and whiplash. Police cite following too closely as the cause. Both vehicles were traveling westbound at impact.

According to the police report, two SUVs traveling westbound on E 189 St in the Bronx collided around 16:46. The rear vehicle, a Buick SUV registered in Florida, struck the center back end of the front Mazda SUV, registered in New York. The driver of the rear vehicle, a 69-year-old man, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash, remaining conscious and restrained by a lap belt and harness. The report explicitly lists 'Following Too Closely' as the contributing factor for the crash. Both vehicles were going straight ahead at the time of impact. The front vehicle carried two occupants, while the rear vehicle had none. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the rear vehicle and the center back end of the front vehicle. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4794841 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A 39-year-old woman was struck by a sedan making a left turn on E 187 St in the Bronx. The driver’s inattention caused the collision. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal and suffered knee and lower leg injuries.

According to the police report, a sedan traveling northwest on E 187 St in the Bronx struck a 39-year-old female pedestrian who was crossing at an intersection with the signal. The driver was making a left turn when the collision occurred, impacting the pedestrian with the vehicle’s left front bumper. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, described as contusions and bruises, and was conscious at the scene. The driver was licensed and operating a 2018 Toyota sedan. The pedestrian’s crossing with the signal was noted, but the crash was caused by the driver’s failure to maintain attention while turning.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4792872 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

Council orders DOT to repaint pavement lines within five days after resurfacing. Delays must be explained to the public. Clear markings mean fewer deadly gaps for walkers and riders.

Int 1160-2025, now enacted, passed the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and full Council in February 2025. The law demands the Department of Transportation install pavement markings or temporary lines within five business days after any street resurfacing. If DOT misses the deadline, it must notify the public and explain the delay. The bill’s matter title: 'A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to installing pavement markings.' Council Member Farah N. Louis led as primary sponsor, joined by Brannan, Schulman, Banks, Farías, Carr, and Ariola. The law took effect March 15, 2025. Timely markings close the deadly window when streets lack crosswalks and lanes, protecting people on foot and bike.

• File Int 1160-2025, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2025-02-13

Two sedans collided on E 198 St near Webster Ave in the Bronx. Both drivers suffered neck injuries; one was unconscious, the other concussed. The crash involved a southbound vehicle going straight and a westbound vehicle making a left turn.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 17:36 on E 198 St near Webster Ave in the Bronx. Two sedans were involved: a 2003 Honda traveling south going straight ahead and a 2020 Honda traveling west making a left turn. The point of impact was the center front end of the southbound vehicle and the right front quarter panel of the westbound vehicle. Both drivers, males aged 18 and 57, were injured with neck trauma. The 18-year-old driver was unconscious, while the 57-year-old driver was conscious but suffered a concussion. Both drivers were wearing lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for both drivers but does not specify failure to yield or other driver errors. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4786965 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A city bus swerved to dodge a double-parked car. It crashed through a wall and dangled over a Bronx overpass. No one was hurt. Debris rained down. The city’s parking chaos left concrete cracked and nerves frayed.

NY1 reported on January 17, 2025, that a BxM1 MTA bus partially drove off the Henry Hudson Parkway overpass near Kappock Street after the driver swerved to avoid a double-parked car. Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz stated, "We’re told by the MTA that the bus was trying to get around an illegally double-parked car, and he hit the wall and went through it." The crash damaged the overpass wall and scattered debris onto the street below. No injuries were reported, though conflicting accounts left passenger presence unclear. City Councilman Eric Dinowitz highlighted the broader issue: "We’re seeing all over the city parking regulations not being enforced." The incident underscores the risks posed by illegal parking and the need for stricter enforcement and infrastructure checks.

• MTA Bus Hangs Off Bronx Overpass, NY1, Published 2025-01-17

Assembly bill A 2299 targets reckless drivers. Eleven points or six camera tickets in a year triggers forced speed control tech. Lawmakers move to curb repeat speeders. Streets demand fewer deadly risks.

Assembly bill A 2299, now in sponsorship, sits with the New York State Assembly. Introduced January 16, 2025, the bill 'requires the installation of intelligent speed assistance devices if a driver accumulates eleven or more points on their driving record during a 24 month period, or receives 6 speed camera or red light camera tickets during a twelve month period.' Primary sponsor Emily Gallagher leads a bloc of co-sponsors, including Rebecca Seawright, Andrew Hevesi, and others. The measure aims to clamp down on repeat speeders with mandatory speed-limiting tech. No safety analyst note was provided.

• File A 2299, Open States, Published 2025-01-16

A distracted SUV driver struck a helmeted bicyclist making a left turn on Arthur Ave. The cyclist suffered knee and lower leg injuries but remained conscious. The crash exposed driver inattention as a critical hazard on city streets.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 6:00 PM on Arthur Ave involving a 2013 Honda SUV traveling west and a 31-year-old female bicyclist also traveling west while making a left turn. The SUV driver, a male with a learner's permit, was cited for 'Driver Inattention/Distraction,' which is listed twice as a contributing factor. The bicyclist, who was wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to the knee, lower leg, and foot but was conscious and not ejected. The point of impact was the SUV's left front bumper striking the bike's center front end. Vehicle damage was reported as none. This incident highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers, especially those with restricted licenses, in collisions with vulnerable road users.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4786193 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

Two SUVs collided on Hughes Ave in the Bronx. The driver suffered a neck injury and whiplash. Police cite improper turning and unsafe speed as causes. Multiple vehicles were damaged in the crash, highlighting dangerous driver errors in the area.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 on Hughes Ave in the Bronx. The collision involved two SUVs traveling north. The driver of one SUV, a 41-year-old male, was injured with neck trauma and complained of whiplash. The report identifies 'Turning Improperly' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors to the crash. The injured driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. Damage was sustained on the right front quarter panel of one SUV and the left rear quarter panel of the other. Several other parked SUVs nearby also suffered damage. The police report emphasizes driver errors, specifically improper turning maneuvers and unsafe speed, as the primary causes of the collision.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4785677 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

Senate bill S 1675 would force carmakers to face the facts. Every vehicle gets a pedestrian safety score. The public sees it. No more hiding danger behind steel and glass.

Senate bill S 1675, now at the sponsorship stage, sits with the New York State Senate. Filed January 13, 2025, it aims to 'create a pedestrian safety rating system for motor vehicles which shall be posted on the department of motor vehicles' website.' Senator Andrew Gounardes leads, joined by Leroy Comrie, Michael Gianaris, Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Robert Jackson, Liz Krueger, Zellnor Myrie, Gustavo Rivera, Julia Salazar, Luis R. Sepúlveda, and Toby Ann Stavisky. The bill demands transparency. It would show the public which cars endanger walkers and which spare them. No safety analyst has yet weighed in, but the intent is clear: expose the risk, protect the vulnerable.

• File S 1675, Open States, Published 2025-01-13

Assembly bill A 1077 pushes for streets built for people, not just cars. Dozens of lawmakers back safer roads. The bill stands at sponsorship. No vote yet. Vulnerable users wait for action.

Assembly bill A 1077, now in sponsorship, aims to 'enable safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles.' Introduced January 8, 2025, the bill sits in committee. Jonathan Rivera leads as primary sponsor, joined by over 60 co-sponsors including Patrick Burke, Robert C. Carroll, and Catalina Cruz. No votes have been cast. The bill's language centers all road users, not just drivers. No safety analyst has yet assessed its impact on vulnerable road users. The measure signals intent but action remains pending.

• File A 1077, Open States, Published 2025-01-08

A 41-year-old man suffered full-body fractures and dislocations after a late-night collision with a southbound SUV in the Bronx. The vehicle struck the pedestrian with its center front end, causing serious injuries. Driver errors contributed to the crash.

According to the police report, a 41-year-old male pedestrian was injured in a collision with a southbound Honda SUV on E 183 Street near Webster Avenue in the Bronx at 11:15 p.m. The vehicle struck the pedestrian with its center front end, inflicting fractures, distortions, and dislocations to the entire body. The pedestrian was conscious but sustained severe injuries. The report lists 'Other Vehicular' as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver error or vehicle-related issues played a role. No pedestrian actions or safety equipment were cited as contributing factors. The driver’s failure to maintain safe operation led to the collision, underscoring systemic dangers faced by pedestrians in this area.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4780157 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A sedan passed too close on East 187th Street. The car struck a bicyclist, breaking his bones. The driver reacted to another vehicle. The cyclist, helmeted, was hurt across his body but stayed conscious.

According to the police report, a sedan traveling east on East 187th Street in the Bronx struck a bicyclist moving in the same direction. The crash happened at 11:22 AM. Police cite 'Passing Too Closely' and 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as driver errors. The cyclist, a 42-year-old man, suffered fractures and dislocations to his entire body. He was wearing a helmet and remained conscious. The sedan's right front quarter panel was damaged, showing the point of impact. The report lists driver distraction and unsafe passing as causes. Helmet use is noted but not listed as a contributing factor.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4777980 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

Council bill bars cars from blocking crosswalks. No standing or parking within 20 feet. City must install daylighting barriers at 1,000 intersections yearly. Streets clear. Sightlines open. Danger cut.

Int 1138-2024, now laid over in the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, was introduced December 5, 2024. The bill states: “prohibiting standing or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection.” Council Member Erik D. Bottcher leads, joined by Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and over two dozen co-sponsors. The law orders the Department of Transportation to install daylighting barriers at a minimum of 1,000 intersections each year, up from 100. The city must also run outreach and education. The bill aims to keep crosswalks clear, improve visibility, and protect people on foot and bike. No more hiding behind parked cars. The committee laid the bill over on April 21, 2025.

• File Int 1138-2024, NYC Council – Legistar, Published 2024-12-05

A motorscooter hit a 21-year-old woman crossing E 191 St with the signal. She suffered knee, leg, and foot injuries. The driver’s unsafe speed caused the crash. The street saw blood and shock. The system failed her.

According to the police report, a motorscooter traveling west on E 191 St struck a 21-year-old female pedestrian as she crossed at the intersection with the signal. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, and was left in shock. The report lists 'Unsafe Speed' as the primary contributing factor, cited twice. The motorscooter’s center front end hit the pedestrian, but the vehicle showed no damage. The driver’s failure to control speed directly led to the collision and injuries. The pedestrian was following crossing signals and was not at fault.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4776414 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A sedan hit a 78-year-old man in the Bronx. The unlicensed driver failed to yield while turning left. The man suffered facial wounds and shock. The car was undamaged. System failed the vulnerable.

According to the police report, a 78-year-old male pedestrian was struck at the intersection of E 188 St and Webster Ave in the Bronx at 7:15 PM. The collision involved a 2021 Honda sedan whose unlicensed male driver was making a left turn. The report lists 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the main contributing factor. The pedestrian suffered facial injuries, minor bleeding, and shock. The vehicle showed no damage. The unlicensed status of the driver and failure to yield led to the crash. No contributing factors were attributed to the pedestrian.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4773280 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A 27-year-old man suffered severe leg fractures after a pick-up truck struck him at an intersection in the Bronx. The driver’s inattention and passing too closely caused the impact. The victim was conscious but seriously injured.

According to the police report, a pick-up truck traveling east on E 188 St in the Bronx struck a 27-year-old male pedestrian at an intersection near Webster Ave around 5 p.m. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The report identifies the driver’s inattention and distraction as primary contributing factors, along with passing too closely to the pedestrian. The point of impact was the truck’s right front bumper. The pedestrian was located in the roadway and was conscious after the collision. The truck showed no vehicle damage, indicating a likely glancing but forceful impact. The driver’s failure to maintain proper attention and safe passing distance directly led to the pedestrian’s serious injuries.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4774387 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04