Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Forest Hills?
Forest Hills Bleeds: Speed Kills, Leaders Stall
Forest Hills: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 4, 2025
The Numbers Don’t Lie
One death. Five serious injuries. 631 people hurt. That is the toll of traffic violence in Forest Hills since 2022. These are not just numbers—they are bodies broken, lives changed. In the last year alone, 212 people were injured here. Four suffered injuries so severe they may never walk the same again. No one died in the last twelve months, but luck will not hold.
Who Pays the Price
Pedestrians and cyclists take the brunt. An 18-year-old was killed by an SUV on the Long Island Expressway. A 16-year-old girl, crossing with the light, was struck by a bus on Yellowstone Boulevard. A cyclist’s face was torn open in a crash with a van on 108th Street. These are not rare events—they are the drumbeat of daily life in Forest Hills. See the data.
The Vehicles That Wound and Kill
SUVs, sedans, trucks, buses, bikes, mopeds. In Forest Hills, SUVs and cars caused the only death and most serious injuries. Trucks and buses left two people with life-altering wounds. Bikes and mopeds hurt others. The street does not forgive mistakes, and the biggest machines do the most harm.
What Has Been Done—And What Hasn’t
Local leaders talk of Vision Zero. The city touts new speed limits, more cameras, and intersection redesigns. But in Forest Hills, the carnage continues. The numbers do not move fast enough. The city has the power to lower speed limits to 20 mph. It has not used it here. Cameras catch speeders, but only where they are installed. The rest of the streets are left to chance.
The Call
This is not fate. Every injury, every death, is preventable. Demand more. Call your council member. Call the mayor. Tell them to lower the speed limit, build real protection for people on foot and bike, and keep the cameras running. Do not wait for another body in the road. Take action now.
Citations
Other Representatives
District 28
70-50 Austin St. Suite 114, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Room 626, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 29
71-19 80th Street, Suite 8-303, Glendale, NY 11385
718-544-8800
250 Broadway, Suite 1840, New York, NY 10007
212-788-6981
District 15
66-85 73rd Place, Middle Village, NY 11379
Room 811, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Forest Hills Forest Hills sits in Queens, Precinct 112, District 29, AD 28, SD 15, Queens CB6.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Forest Hills
S 3897Comrie votes yes to require safer complete street designs, improving safety.▸Senate passed S 3897. More state cash flows to cities that build complete streets. Lawmakers push for safer roads. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at survival.
Bill S 3897 cleared the Senate committee on March 2, 2022, with a final vote on May 25, 2022. The bill, titled 'Relates to complete street design features and funding of construction and improvements at a municipalities' expense,' boosts state funding for transportation projects when cities add complete street features. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Senators including Cooney, Gallivan, Kaminsky, Kaplan, Liu, and others voted yes. The measure aims to tie state money to safer street design, pushing municipalities to build roads that protect people outside cars.
-
File S 3897,
Open States,
Published 2022-03-02
S 5130Comrie votes yes, boosting street safety and access for everyone.▸Senate passed S 5130. The bill pushes complete street design. It aims for safe access for all. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at safer roads. The vote was split, but the bill moved forward.
Senate bill S 5130, titled 'Enables safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles,' passed committee votes on March 2 and May 16, 2022. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Support came from members like Jeremy Cooney, Anna Kaplan, and John Liu. Dissent came from Patrick Gallivan and Susan Serino. The bill pushes cities to design roads for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. It marks a shift from car-first planning. The measure aims to cut risk for people outside cars. Full vote details and text are at the New York Senate website.
-
File S 5130,
Open States,
Published 2022-03-02
Pedestrian Injured Crossing Austin Street▸A 45-year-old woman was struck while crossing Austin Street with the signal. The sedan driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver made a right turn without yielding.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Austin Street and 71 Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when a sedan, driven by a licensed female driver, made a right turn and struck her. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver errors as "Driver Inattention/Distraction" and "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way." The vehicle showed no damage, indicating the impact was likely low-speed but still caused significant injury. No contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
Melinda R Katz Supports Hit-and-Run Enforcement Opposes NYPD Ineffectiveness▸Police finally charged Christian Soriano for killing Darwin Durazno, a teen cyclist, in College Point. Soriano, unlicensed, fled after swerving into oncoming traffic and striking Durazno. The arrest came months later. Most hit-and-run drivers in New York escape justice.
On February 9, 2022, NYPD arrested Christian Soriano, 27, for the June 4, 2021 hit-and-run crash that killed 16-year-old cyclist Darwin Durazno in College Point, Queens. Soriano faces manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene charges. The crash happened when Soriano, driving a Toyota Camry, swerved into oncoming traffic and struck Durazno, who later died from severe head trauma. The car, a rental, was found nearby. Witnesses described Soriano as he fled on foot. Despite these leads, it took eight months to make an arrest. The matter highlights systemic failure: in 2020, NYPD made arrests in only 0.8 percent of hit-and-run cases involving injuries or property damage. Even in serious injury cases, arrests are rare. Vulnerable road users remain at risk while most drivers evade consequences.
-
Cops Charge Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Queens Cyclist Last Year,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-02-15
2SUV Rear-Ends Box Truck on Expressway▸Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
Senate passed S 3897. More state cash flows to cities that build complete streets. Lawmakers push for safer roads. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at survival.
Bill S 3897 cleared the Senate committee on March 2, 2022, with a final vote on May 25, 2022. The bill, titled 'Relates to complete street design features and funding of construction and improvements at a municipalities' expense,' boosts state funding for transportation projects when cities add complete street features. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Senators including Cooney, Gallivan, Kaminsky, Kaplan, Liu, and others voted yes. The measure aims to tie state money to safer street design, pushing municipalities to build roads that protect people outside cars.
- File S 3897, Open States, Published 2022-03-02
S 5130Comrie votes yes, boosting street safety and access for everyone.▸Senate passed S 5130. The bill pushes complete street design. It aims for safe access for all. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at safer roads. The vote was split, but the bill moved forward.
Senate bill S 5130, titled 'Enables safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles,' passed committee votes on March 2 and May 16, 2022. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Support came from members like Jeremy Cooney, Anna Kaplan, and John Liu. Dissent came from Patrick Gallivan and Susan Serino. The bill pushes cities to design roads for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. It marks a shift from car-first planning. The measure aims to cut risk for people outside cars. Full vote details and text are at the New York Senate website.
-
File S 5130,
Open States,
Published 2022-03-02
Pedestrian Injured Crossing Austin Street▸A 45-year-old woman was struck while crossing Austin Street with the signal. The sedan driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver made a right turn without yielding.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Austin Street and 71 Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when a sedan, driven by a licensed female driver, made a right turn and struck her. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver errors as "Driver Inattention/Distraction" and "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way." The vehicle showed no damage, indicating the impact was likely low-speed but still caused significant injury. No contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
Melinda R Katz Supports Hit-and-Run Enforcement Opposes NYPD Ineffectiveness▸Police finally charged Christian Soriano for killing Darwin Durazno, a teen cyclist, in College Point. Soriano, unlicensed, fled after swerving into oncoming traffic and striking Durazno. The arrest came months later. Most hit-and-run drivers in New York escape justice.
On February 9, 2022, NYPD arrested Christian Soriano, 27, for the June 4, 2021 hit-and-run crash that killed 16-year-old cyclist Darwin Durazno in College Point, Queens. Soriano faces manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene charges. The crash happened when Soriano, driving a Toyota Camry, swerved into oncoming traffic and struck Durazno, who later died from severe head trauma. The car, a rental, was found nearby. Witnesses described Soriano as he fled on foot. Despite these leads, it took eight months to make an arrest. The matter highlights systemic failure: in 2020, NYPD made arrests in only 0.8 percent of hit-and-run cases involving injuries or property damage. Even in serious injury cases, arrests are rare. Vulnerable road users remain at risk while most drivers evade consequences.
-
Cops Charge Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Queens Cyclist Last Year,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-02-15
2SUV Rear-Ends Box Truck on Expressway▸Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
Senate passed S 5130. The bill pushes complete street design. It aims for safe access for all. Pedestrians and cyclists get a shot at safer roads. The vote was split, but the bill moved forward.
Senate bill S 5130, titled 'Enables safe access to public roads for all users by utilizing complete street design principles,' passed committee votes on March 2 and May 16, 2022. Senator Kennedy sponsored the bill. Support came from members like Jeremy Cooney, Anna Kaplan, and John Liu. Dissent came from Patrick Gallivan and Susan Serino. The bill pushes cities to design roads for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. It marks a shift from car-first planning. The measure aims to cut risk for people outside cars. Full vote details and text are at the New York Senate website.
- File S 5130, Open States, Published 2022-03-02
Pedestrian Injured Crossing Austin Street▸A 45-year-old woman was struck while crossing Austin Street with the signal. The sedan driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver made a right turn without yielding.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Austin Street and 71 Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when a sedan, driven by a licensed female driver, made a right turn and struck her. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver errors as "Driver Inattention/Distraction" and "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way." The vehicle showed no damage, indicating the impact was likely low-speed but still caused significant injury. No contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
Melinda R Katz Supports Hit-and-Run Enforcement Opposes NYPD Ineffectiveness▸Police finally charged Christian Soriano for killing Darwin Durazno, a teen cyclist, in College Point. Soriano, unlicensed, fled after swerving into oncoming traffic and striking Durazno. The arrest came months later. Most hit-and-run drivers in New York escape justice.
On February 9, 2022, NYPD arrested Christian Soriano, 27, for the June 4, 2021 hit-and-run crash that killed 16-year-old cyclist Darwin Durazno in College Point, Queens. Soriano faces manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene charges. The crash happened when Soriano, driving a Toyota Camry, swerved into oncoming traffic and struck Durazno, who later died from severe head trauma. The car, a rental, was found nearby. Witnesses described Soriano as he fled on foot. Despite these leads, it took eight months to make an arrest. The matter highlights systemic failure: in 2020, NYPD made arrests in only 0.8 percent of hit-and-run cases involving injuries or property damage. Even in serious injury cases, arrests are rare. Vulnerable road users remain at risk while most drivers evade consequences.
-
Cops Charge Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Queens Cyclist Last Year,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-02-15
2SUV Rear-Ends Box Truck on Expressway▸Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
A 45-year-old woman was struck while crossing Austin Street with the signal. The sedan driver failed to yield and was distracted. The pedestrian suffered bruises and injuries to her knee and lower leg. The driver made a right turn without yielding.
According to the police report, a 45-year-old female pedestrian was injured at the intersection of Austin Street and 71 Avenue in Queens. She was crossing with the signal when a sedan, driven by a licensed female driver, made a right turn and struck her. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report lists driver errors as "Driver Inattention/Distraction" and "Failure to Yield Right-of-Way." The vehicle showed no damage, indicating the impact was likely low-speed but still caused significant injury. No contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted.
Melinda R Katz Supports Hit-and-Run Enforcement Opposes NYPD Ineffectiveness▸Police finally charged Christian Soriano for killing Darwin Durazno, a teen cyclist, in College Point. Soriano, unlicensed, fled after swerving into oncoming traffic and striking Durazno. The arrest came months later. Most hit-and-run drivers in New York escape justice.
On February 9, 2022, NYPD arrested Christian Soriano, 27, for the June 4, 2021 hit-and-run crash that killed 16-year-old cyclist Darwin Durazno in College Point, Queens. Soriano faces manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene charges. The crash happened when Soriano, driving a Toyota Camry, swerved into oncoming traffic and struck Durazno, who later died from severe head trauma. The car, a rental, was found nearby. Witnesses described Soriano as he fled on foot. Despite these leads, it took eight months to make an arrest. The matter highlights systemic failure: in 2020, NYPD made arrests in only 0.8 percent of hit-and-run cases involving injuries or property damage. Even in serious injury cases, arrests are rare. Vulnerable road users remain at risk while most drivers evade consequences.
-
Cops Charge Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Queens Cyclist Last Year,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-02-15
2SUV Rear-Ends Box Truck on Expressway▸Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
Police finally charged Christian Soriano for killing Darwin Durazno, a teen cyclist, in College Point. Soriano, unlicensed, fled after swerving into oncoming traffic and striking Durazno. The arrest came months later. Most hit-and-run drivers in New York escape justice.
On February 9, 2022, NYPD arrested Christian Soriano, 27, for the June 4, 2021 hit-and-run crash that killed 16-year-old cyclist Darwin Durazno in College Point, Queens. Soriano faces manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and leaving the scene charges. The crash happened when Soriano, driving a Toyota Camry, swerved into oncoming traffic and struck Durazno, who later died from severe head trauma. The car, a rental, was found nearby. Witnesses described Soriano as he fled on foot. Despite these leads, it took eight months to make an arrest. The matter highlights systemic failure: in 2020, NYPD made arrests in only 0.8 percent of hit-and-run cases involving injuries or property damage. Even in serious injury cases, arrests are rare. Vulnerable road users remain at risk while most drivers evade consequences.
- Cops Charge Hit-and-Run Driver Who Killed Queens Cyclist Last Year, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-02-15
2SUV Rear-Ends Box Truck on Expressway▸Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
Two vehicles collided on the Long Island Expressway. An SUV struck a box truck from behind. Two passengers in the SUV suffered back injuries and shock. Both vehicles traveled east. The SUV driver followed too closely, causing the crash.
According to the police report, an SUV traveling east on the Long Island Expressway rear-ended a box truck also traveling east. The impact occurred at the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the truck. Two passengers in the SUV, a 37-year-old female and a 60-year-old male, were injured with back injuries and experienced shock. Both were restrained with lap belts and harnesses and were not ejected. The report lists "Following Too Closely" as a contributing factor, indicating the SUV driver failed to maintain a safe distance behind the truck. No other driver errors or victim factors were noted.
Comrie Calls for No Exemptions in Congestion Pricing▸Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
-
Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders,
gothamist.com,
Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
Governor Hochul’s budget cracks down on toll cheats. New laws hit drivers who hide plates or fake exemptions. The MTA loses millions to evasion. Lawmakers debate fairness and credits. Enforcement sharpens. Revenue for transit hangs in the balance.
Bill 42, part of Governor Hochul’s 2022 executive budget, aims to enforce congestion pricing by introducing new penalties for toll evasion. The proposal, discussed in the Senate on January 20, 2022, lets the DMV deny registration to vehicles with unpaid tolls and sets fines up to $5,000 for fraudulent exemption claims. The matter summary states: 'Governor Kathy Hochul's executive budget includes several changes to New York's congestion pricing program, which is expected to provide crucial revenue for transit upgrades.' Senator James Skoufis, mentioned in the hearing, pushed for credits for certain drivers. The bill is supported by MTA spokesperson Eugene Resnick and Governor Hochul’s office, who say it will ensure fairness. The MTA reports $4 million lost annually to toll evaders. The review board will finalize fee structures and exemptions. No specific safety impact for vulnerable road users was provided.
- Hochul Paves Way Forward For Congestion Pricing With New Laws And Penalties for Toll Evaders, gothamist.com, Published 2022-01-20
Comrie Opposes Exemptions to Safety Boosting Congestion Pricing▸State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
-
State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing,
nypost.com,
Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
State Sen. Leroy Comrie slammed calls for more congestion pricing exemptions. He warned that carving out special breaks guts the plan’s purpose. Comrie said every exemption means less money for transit. He wants the city to hold the line. No more carve-outs.
On January 19, 2022, State Sen. Leroy Comrie, chair of the MTA committee, spoke at a legislative hearing on congestion pricing exemptions. The hearing addressed whether to grant more carve-outs to Manhattan’s congestion tolls. Comrie declared, 'I don't think there should be any exemptions, and I'm going to continue to say that there should be no exemptions.' He pushed back against senators seeking discounts for suburban drivers and city workers. Comrie warned that opening the door to more exemptions would undermine the law’s intent and threaten revenue for transit. He said, 'Once you open up that can of worms, you create major problems, because everybody wants to be exempted for something.' Comrie’s stance: keep the plan strict, protect transit funding, and don’t weaken congestion pricing with special favors.
- State Sen. Leroy Comrie, who oversees MTA committee, wants no more exemptions for NYC congestion pricing, nypost.com, Published 2022-01-19
Melinda R Katz Opposes DA Decision Shielding Deadly Drivers▸A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
-
Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition,
Streetsblog NYC,
Published 2022-01-13
A speeding Mercedes driver killed a delivery man in Queens. The DA declined charges. In deposition, the driver showed little remorse. She blamed her car, denied fault, and dodged questions. The victim’s family pursues civil justice. Systemic failures shield deadly drivers.
On April 29, 2021, Maro Andrianou, driving a Mercedes-Benz, struck and killed delivery worker Xing Long Lin on 35th Street near Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. The case never reached criminal court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz declined to prosecute, citing Andrianou’s claim that her car accelerated uncontrollably after a minor rear tap. Video evidence contradicted this, showing only a light bump. In a December 8, 2021, deposition for a civil suit, Andrianou showed little remorse, blaming her car and denying responsibility. Attorneys for Lin’s family called her defense 'fabricated.' Katz’s decision left the victim’s family with only civil recourse. The case underscores how drivers who kill often escape criminal accountability, leaving vulnerable road users at risk.
- Driver Who Killed Delivery Man Offered Little Remorse, Few Answers During Deposition, Streetsblog NYC, Published 2022-01-13