Linden Boulevard Bleeds While City Hall Sleeps

At 113th Avenue and 204th Street, a sedan plowed into a moped head-on. The rider, helmeted and conscious, was hurled and bled from wounds across his body. Police cite traffic control disregard. Steel met flesh. System failed.

According to the police report, a sedan struck a moped head-on at the corner of 113th Avenue and 204th Street in Queens at 1:10 p.m. The moped rider, a 49-year-old man, was thrown from his vehicle and suffered severe bleeding and injuries to his entire body. The report states the rider was wearing a helmet and remained conscious after the crash. Police explicitly cite 'Traffic Control Disregarded' as a contributing factor, indicating that a driver ignored a traffic signal or sign. The sedan's impact was centered on the moped's front end. The report makes no mention of any error or infraction by the moped rider. The collision underscores the lethal consequences when drivers disregard traffic controls.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4795876 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.

ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.

• Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash, ABC7, Published 2025-02-28

A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.

According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.

• Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens, New York Post, Published 2025-02-27

A sedan traveling north struck the right side doors of another vehicle on 122 Ave late at night. Two rear passengers suffered upper arm and head injuries, both in shock. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles' side doors.

According to the police report, a 2012 Honda sedan traveling north on 122 Ave collided with the right side doors of another vehicle. The sedan's point of impact was its left front bumper, while the other vehicle sustained damage to its right side doors. Two female rear passengers, aged 24 and 26, were injured in the crash, suffering upper arm and head injuries respectively, both classified as injury severity 3 and experiencing shock. Both passengers were not ejected from the vehicle. The report does not specify contributing driver errors or other factors. The driver of the sedan was licensed in New York and was going straight ahead prior to the crash. No pedestrian or cyclist involvement is noted.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4796064 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.

ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.

• Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker, ABC7, Published 2025-02-26

A sedan making a left turn struck a northbound motorcycle on Farmers Blvd in Queens. The motorcyclist was ejected, suffering severe leg fractures. Police cite the sedan driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as the primary cause of the crash.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:20 p.m. on Farmers Blvd in Queens. A 2019 Nissan sedan was making a left turn southbound when it collided with a northbound 2023 Ducati motorcycle. The point of impact was the sedan’s right side doors and the motorcycle’s center front end. The motorcyclist, a 36-year-old male, was ejected from the vehicle and sustained serious injuries including fractures and dislocations to his knee, lower leg, and foot. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet at the time. The report explicitly lists the sedan driver’s failure to yield right-of-way as a contributing factor. No other contributing factors related to the victim were noted. The sedan driver was licensed in Florida; the motorcyclist was licensed in Pennsylvania.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4794118 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A 79-year-old woman suffered knee and lower leg injuries when a northbound sedan made a left turn and struck her at an intersection. The driver’s inattention caused the collision despite the pedestrian crossing with the signal.

According to the police report, a 79-year-old female pedestrian was injured on Farmers Blvd near 111 Ave in Queens at 1:30 PM. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal at the intersection when a northbound sedan making a left turn struck her on the right front quarter panel. The collision caused abrasions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot. The report explicitly cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a contributing factor to the crash. The driver was licensed and operating a 2013 Honda sedan. No contributing factors related to the pedestrian were noted beyond crossing with the signal. The impact and resulting injuries highlight the dangers posed by distracted driving in intersections, especially to elderly pedestrians.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4795865 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A 23-year-old woman suffered knee and lower leg injuries after a pick-up truck driver distracted by inattention made an improper left turn. The pedestrian was crossing with the signal when the collision occurred, highlighting driver error as the cause.

According to the police report, at 7:50 AM a pick-up truck traveling northwest on Montauk Street made an improper left turn. The driver, a licensed male from New York, was cited for 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Turning Improperly' as contributing factors. A 23-year-old female pedestrian was crossing with the signal at the intersection when she was struck. She sustained contusions and bruises to her knee, lower leg, and foot, with injury severity rated at level 3. The vehicle showed no damage, indicating a low-speed impact. The report explicitly attributes the crash to driver errors, with no contributing factors related to the pedestrian's behavior. This incident underscores the dangers posed by distracted driving and improper turning maneuvers in urban intersections.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4793220 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

Senator Comrie backs a yellow alert system. Police would blast car details after deadly hit-and-runs. The goal: catch drivers who kill and flee. The bill stands at sponsorship. No safety review yet.

Senate Bill S 4946, sponsored by Senator Leroy Comrie, aims to create a 'yellow alert system' for law enforcement to publicize vehicle information after fatal hit-and-run crashes. The bill is at the sponsorship stage as of February 14, 2025. The official summary reads: 'Establishes a "yellow alert system" for law enforcement to publicize vehicle information in instances of hit-and-run accidents in which a person has been killed.' No committee action or vote has occurred. No safety analyst has reviewed the impact on vulnerable road users.

• File S 4946, Open States, Published 2025-02-14

A minivan left the road in Queens. It hit a tree. One woman died. Three others, all seniors, went to the hospital. The crash happened on Brookville Boulevard, near Sunrise Highway. Police are investigating. The road stayed quiet after.

According to the NY Daily News (published February 14, 2025), a minivan from Eunhae Adult Daycare crashed while leaving a senior residence in Queens. The 74-year-old driver 'lost control of the wheel at the Sunrise Highway.' The vehicle veered off Brookville Blvd and struck a tree. Four people were inside, all seniors. One woman in her 70s died after being found unconscious in the back seat. Three others, including the driver, were hospitalized but expected to survive. Police are investigating the cause. The article highlights the dangers faced by passengers in vehicles operated by older drivers and the risks at busy intersections like Brookville Boulevard and Sunrise Highway.

• Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-14

SUV and taxi collided on 109 Avenue. Both drivers and two passengers hurt. Impact left metal twisted, nerves frayed. Police cite driver distraction. System failed to shield the vulnerable.

According to the police report, a 2016 SUV making a left turn struck a 2021 taxi that was passing on 109 Avenue in Queens. Both drivers, a 58-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man, were injured and in shock. Two taxi passengers, ages 47 and 9, were also hurt and shocked. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor. The SUV’s left front bumper and the taxi’s left side doors and quarter panel took the brunt. All occupants wore lap belts and were not ejected. The crash shows the danger of distraction behind the wheel on city streets.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4793052 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

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

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

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

A car struck an underpass on Belt Parkway. Metal twisted. A woman, 27, died at the hospital. A man survived. Police do not know who drove. The wreck left questions. The system failed to protect its passengers.

According to NY Daily News (published February 8, 2025), a single-car crash on Queens’ Belt Parkway killed a 27-year-old woman and injured a 30-year-old man. The white Toyota sedan hit an underpass near 225th Street around 3:50 a.m. Both occupants were found outside the wreck when police arrived. Investigators are unsure who was driving at the time of impact: 'Since both occupants were out of the car at the time of the crash, investigators haven't figured out who was driving, police said.' The woman died at Long Island Jewish Hospital-Valley Stream; the man was expected to survive. The article highlights ongoing uncertainty about driver identity and underscores the persistent risks on city highways, especially where loss of vehicle control leads to deadly outcomes. The investigation continues.

• Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-08

A pick-up truck rear-ended an SUV on Linden Blvd in Queens. The SUV passenger, a 43-year-old woman, suffered a head contusion. Police cite driver inattention as the cause. The impact struck the center back end of the SUV, injuring the occupant inside.

According to the police report, the crash occurred on Linden Blvd in Queens at 2:00 PM. A pick-up truck traveling east struck the center back end of a Ford SUV also traveling east. The driver of the pick-up truck was cited for driver inattention/distraction. The SUV had two occupants; a 43-year-old female passenger sustained a head injury described as a contusion and was conscious after the crash. The passenger was not ejected and was not using any safety equipment. The point of impact was the center back end of the SUV and the center front end of the pick-up truck. The collision resulted from the pick-up truck driver's failure to maintain attention, causing the rear-end collision and injury to the passenger.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4792570 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A man slammed his Mercedes into a stopped car on the Whitestone Expressway. The impact threw an MTA worker onto the pavement. The driver ran. The worker died. Police found the abandoned car. The driver had no license.

NY Daily News reported on February 5, 2025, that James Vennitti, 63, was arrested for a deadly hit-and-run on the Whitestone Expressway in Queens. On February 10, 2024, Vennitti allegedly rear-ended David Berney, 43, after Berney and another driver stopped in the middle lane following a minor collision. The crash threw Berney from his car, killing him at the scene. The other driver was injured. Vennitti, unlicensed, abandoned his Mercedes and fled on foot. Police arrested him a year later. A grand jury indicted Vennitti for leaving the scene of a fatal crash and driving without a license. The case highlights the lethal risk of unlicensed driving and the dangers of stopped vehicles on high-speed roads.

• Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-05

A Toyota RAV4 jumped the curb on 90th Avenue, slammed into a garage, and collapsed the structure. The driver, Mamadou Barry, was trapped. First responders pulled him out, but he died at the hospital. No other injuries reported.

According to NY Daily News (2025-01-22), Mamadou Barry, 63, was driving his Toyota RAV4 along 90th Ave. in Jamaica, Queens, around 5:20 a.m. when he lost control, hopped a curb at 143rd St., and crashed into a detached garage. The impact caused the garage to collapse onto both his SUV and a parked, unoccupied Prius. Police said Barry was trapped and later died at Jamaica Hospital. The article notes, 'he lost control of the SUV, which went crashing into a detached garage in Queens, police said.' Family members stated Barry had no known medical issues. The cause of the crash remains unclear. No other injuries were reported. The incident highlights the dangers faced by drivers and bystanders in residential areas where structures sit close to the street.

• Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-01-22

A 29-year-old woman suffered knee and lower leg injuries when an SUV backed into her off the roadway in Queens. The driver’s inattention and unsafe backing caused the collision, leaving the pedestrian bruised but conscious.

According to the police report, the crash occurred at 12:20 in Queens near 112-55 Farmers Blvd. A 29-year-old female pedestrian was injured when a station wagon/SUV backed into her off the roadway. The report cites the driver’s errors as 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Backing Unsafely.' The point of impact was the center back end of the vehicle. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious. The vehicle showed no damage. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle alone. The pedestrian was not in the roadway at the time, underscoring the driver’s failure to observe surroundings while backing.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4788455 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

A 64-year-old woman was injured crossing outside a crosswalk in Queens. An SUV making a U-turn struck her with its left front bumper. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the pedestrian with bruises and lower leg injuries.

According to the police report, a 64-year-old female pedestrian was injured while crossing outside a crosswalk on Linden Boulevard in Queens at 6:30 PM. The collision involved a 2015 SUV traveling east that was making a U-turn. The point of impact was the vehicle's left front bumper. The pedestrian sustained contusions and injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but was conscious and not ejected. The report cites 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the primary contributing factor to the crash. There was no damage reported to the vehicle. The pedestrian was crossing without a signal or crosswalk, but no contributing factors related to her actions were noted. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle in New York. This incident highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making complex maneuvers in urban areas.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4787186 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04

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

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

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

Van driver lost consciousness on Merrick Blvd. Crashed. Suffered whiplash and full-body injuries. Unlicensed. No other vehicles or people hurt. Metal twisted. Streets unforgiving.

According to the police report, a 28-year-old man driving a 1999 Ford van west on Merrick Blvd lost consciousness and crashed. He was unlicensed in New York. The van hit with its right front bumper, damaging the quarter panel. The driver, alone in the vehicle, wore a lap belt and suffered whiplash and injuries to his entire body. The report lists 'Lost Consciousness' and 'Illness' as contributing factors. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The crash shows the danger when a driver is medically incapacitated and unlicensed behind the wheel.

• Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4786462 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-04