Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Kew Gardens?
Kew Gardens Bleeds—Lower the Speed Before Someone Dies
Kew Gardens: Jan 1, 2022 - Jun 6, 2025
The Toll in Kew Gardens
No one died on the streets of Kew Gardens in the last year. But the blood still runs. In the past 12 months, 132 people were injured in 188 crashes. Two were left with serious wounds. Children were not spared—ten under 18 were hurt. The old were not spared—one over 75 was struck. The numbers do not rest. They pile up, slow and steady, like the sound of tires on wet asphalt.
The Faces Behind the Numbers
A 19-year-old bled from his arm after a motorcycle crash. A 56-year-old woman was left with torn flesh after a collision on Queens Boulevard. A 26-year-old was thrown from his moped, his leg broken. These are not statistics. These are people who woke up that morning and did not expect pain. “He rams right into the side of the car,” said Jose DeAguiar, after an Amazon driver hit his parked car and left without a word (ABC7). The driver shrugged. The victim waited months for justice.
Leadership: Promises and Delays
The city talks about Vision Zero. They say every life matters. They point to new laws, like Sammy’s Law, which lets New York City lower speed limits. But the limit is not yet lowered. Cameras catch speeders, but the law that keeps them running is always at risk. The city redesigns intersections, but the blood does not stop. No one in power has stood in Kew Gardens and said, ‘Enough.’
What Comes Next
This is not fate. This is policy. Call your council member. Call the mayor. Demand a 20 mph speed limit. Demand speed cameras that never go dark. Demand streets that do not bleed.
Do not wait for another name to become a number. Act now.
Citations
▸ Citations
- Amazon Truck Hits Parked Car, Flees, ABC7, Published 2025-05-20
- Amazon Truck Hits Parked Car, Flees, ABC7, Published 2025-05-20
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4798014 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-06-04
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 14
113-43 Farmers Blvd., St. Albans, NY 11412
Room 913, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Kew Gardens Kew Gardens sits in Queens, Precinct 102, District 29, AD 28, SD 14, Queens CB9.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Kew Gardens
E-Bike Rider Hits Parked Sedan on 82 Avenue▸E-bike slammed into a parked sedan on 82 Avenue near Kew Garden Road. Rider suffered a head abrasion. Police cite driver inexperience. Sedan was empty. Metal bent. Blood on the street.
According to the police report, a 40-year-old man riding an e-bike struck the left side doors of a parked sedan on 82 Avenue near Kew Garden Road in Queens. The rider was injured, suffering a head abrasion, but remained conscious. The report lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. The sedan was unoccupied and parked at the time of impact. The e-bike's right front bumper and the sedan's left side doors were damaged. The rider was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were noted.
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
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
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
E-bike slammed into a parked sedan on 82 Avenue near Kew Garden Road. Rider suffered a head abrasion. Police cite driver inexperience. Sedan was empty. Metal bent. Blood on the street.
According to the police report, a 40-year-old man riding an e-bike struck the left side doors of a parked sedan on 82 Avenue near Kew Garden Road in Queens. The rider was injured, suffering a head abrasion, but remained conscious. The report lists 'Driver Inexperience' as a contributing factor in the crash. The sedan was unoccupied and parked at the time of impact. The e-bike's right front bumper and the sedan's left side doors were damaged. The rider was wearing a helmet. No other contributing factors were noted.
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
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
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
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
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
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
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
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
Rear-End Collision Injures Driver on Van Wyck▸Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.
Two sedans collided on Van Wyck Expressway. A 26-year-old woman suffered back bruises. Police cited following too closely and failure to yield. Both cars moved south. The injured driver wore a lap belt.
According to the police report, two sedans traveling south on Van Wyck Expressway collided. The 26-year-old female driver of the rear vehicle was injured, suffering back contusions and bruises. She remained conscious and was secured by a lap belt. The report lists driver errors as following too closely and failure to yield right-of-way. The front vehicle, a 2015 Jeep sedan, showed no damage. The rear 2019 Honda sedan had damage to its center back end. Both vehicles were going straight ahead. No other contributing factors or victim errors were noted.