About these crash totals
Counts come from NYC police crash reports (NYC Open Data). We sum all crashes, injuries, and deaths for this area across the selected time window shown on the card. Injury severity follows the official definitions in the NYPD dataset.
- Crashes: number of police‑reported collisions (all road users).
- All injuries: total injured people in those crashes.
- Moderate / Serious: subcategories reported by officers (e.g., broken bones vs. life‑threatening trauma).
- Deaths: people who died due to a crash.
Notes: Police reports can be corrected after initial publication. Minor incidents without a police report are not included.
Close▸ Killed 4
▸ Crush Injuries 5
▸ Severe Lacerations 3
▸ Concussion 2
▸ Whiplash 41
▸ Contusion/Bruise 35
▸ Abrasion 42
▸ Pain/Nausea 11
About this chart
We group pedestrian injuries and deaths by the vehicle type that struck them (as recorded in police reports). Use the dropdown to view totals, serious injuries, or deaths.
- Trucks/Buses, SUVs/Cars, Mopeds, and Bikes reflect the reporting categories in the crash dataset.
- Counts include people on foot only; crashes with no injured pedestrians are not shown here.
Notes: Police classification can change during investigations. Small categories may have year-to-year variance.
CloseAbout these numbers
These totals count vehicles with at least the shown number of camera‑issued speeding violations (school‑zone speed cameras) in any rolling 12‑month window in this district. Totals are summed from 2022 to the present for this geography.
- ≥ 6 (6+): advocates’ standard for repeat speeding offenders who should face escalating consequences.
- ≥ 16 (16+): threshold in the current edited bill awaiting State Senate action.
Caught Speeding Recently in Precinct 100
- 2024 Black Tesla Sedan (39DTPQ) – 92 times • 1 in last 90d here
- Vehicle (KWC3226) – 83 times • 1 in last 90d here
- 2023 Infiniti Sedan (MRC2094) – 80 times • 3 in last 90d here
- 2025 White BMW Suburban (LKN7336) – 57 times • 1 in last 90d here
- 2013 Gray Infiniti Sedan (LEY5124) – 54 times • 1 in last 90d here
About this list
This ranks vehicles by the number of NYC school‑zone speed‑camera violations they received in the last 12 months anywhere in the city. The smaller note shows how many times the same plate was caught in this area in the last 90 days.
Camera violations are issued by NYC DOT’s program. Counts reflect issued tickets and may omit dismissed or pending cases. Plate text is shown verbatim as recorded.
Close
Rockaway’s open wound: three pedestrian deaths, no margin for error
Precinct 100: Jan 1, 2022 - Aug 25, 2025
The Rockaways keep taking the hit. In Precinct 100, people on foot are dying on the big roads: three pedestrian deaths since 2022, with 84 injured. SUVs and sedans do most of the damage. The toll lives on long corridors where speed feels free and space is wide.
- Beach Channel Drive.
- Cross Bay Boulevard.
- Rockaway Beach Boulevard.
Police and hospital logs show the hurt spikes at the edges of day and into the night — the 7 a.m. rush, the late afternoon push, and a hard rise at 9–10 p.m. and 2–3 a.m.
Cross Bay, two deaths, one bridge
A person walking on the North Channel Bridge was hit just after 2 a.m. The SUV was going straight north on Cross Bay Boulevard. The pedestrian died at the scene. The data lists the cause as “Unspecified.” The body went to the Medical Examiner. The road stayed open. NYC Open Data
On another night, a 27‑year‑old driver died at East 1 Road and Cross Bay. The records say unsafe speed and alcohol involvement. One car. One body. NYC Open Data
Cross Bay shows up in the precinct’s hot spots with two deaths and 28 injuries. It is a long, straight shot to pain. NYC Open Data
Rockaway Beach Boulevard: a night kill
On Rockaway Beach Boulevard at Beach 87th, a 27‑year‑old man was struck and killed at night. Two sedans were in the record. The factor noted is aggressive driving/road rage. Another life gone. NYC Open Data
The corridor racks up 58 injuries tied to crashes. It keeps its place on the precinct’s list of worst locations. NYC Open Data
Beach Channel: injuries stack up
Beach Channel Drive leads the board with 60 injuries and two serious wounds. It is the everyday site of glass, sirens, and forms. In July, two SUVs going west collided at the Jacob Riis Park driveway; the driver listed with back crush injuries. Factors: improper lane use and improper turn. NYC Open Data
Night, speed, and the bodies in the count
In this precinct, the heaviest injury hours sit at the commute — 7 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. — and then again after dark: 9–10 p.m., 8–9 p.m., 2–3 a.m. The roll‑up blames the big buckets we know: “other,” vulnerable user error, distraction, failure to yield. Speed is in the fatal files. The worst harm to people walking comes from sedans and SUVs, which together are tied to most deaths and injuries. NYC Open Data
A hit‑and‑run near JFK shows what’s loose
A 52‑year‑old man was crossing 155th Street at South Conduit Avenue near JFK at 2:30 a.m. A driver hit him and fled. “The driver sped off without stopping. No arrests have been made,” police said. Detectives searched for video. NY Daily News Gothamist ABC7
What would make it stop here
- Daylight the corners on Beach Channel, Rockaway Beach Blvd, and Cross Bay. Clear the sight lines.
- Hardened left turns and leading pedestrian intervals at the Beach 80s and 90s, and the bridge mouths. Slower entries. Slower exits.
- Night focus. Targeted speed and failure‑to‑yield enforcement in the 8 p.m.–10 p.m. and 2 a.m.–3 a.m. bands.
Citywide levers that matter on these blocks
The open‑data files are full of speed. The headlines are full of bodies. A speeding car hit two men at a Queens food truck. The men died. The driver died too. CBS New York
There is a tool to slow the city. Lower the default speed limit. Use it. And stop the worst repeat offenders. The state bill on the table would force drivers with long rap sheets of tickets or points to use speed limiters that cap the car to the limit plus five. It aims at the tiny slice that does outsized harm. Take Action
Accountability, in plain sight
Wrong‑way. High speed. Late‑night flight. The record speaks. “Joseph Lee terrorized other drivers as he purposefully drove the wrong way on a busy Queens highway,” the Queens DA said. A jury convicted him. He told police he “wanted to hurt people.” He got eight years. amNY
This precinct is not a map. It is Beach Channel. It is Cross Bay. It is Rockaway Beach Boulevard. Names that keep showing up in the log.
Act. Join your neighbors. Push the city to slow the cars and rein in the repeat speeders. Start here: Take Action.
Citations
▸ Citations
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – Crash data (Crashes) - Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-08-25
- Speeding Car Kills Pedestrians At Food Truck, CBS New York, Published 2025-08-13
- Wrong-way driver rams cars on expressway, amny, Published 2025-08-15
- Queens Hit-And-Run Kills Pedestrian Near JFK, NY Daily News, Published 2025-08-13
- Hit-And-Run Kills Pedestrian Near JFK, Gothamist, Published 2025-08-13
- Pedestrian Killed In JFK Hit-And-Run, ABC7, Published 2025-08-13
Other Representatives
District 23
159-53 102nd St., Howard Beach, NY 11414
Room 839, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 32
114-12 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 1, Rockaway Park, NY 11694
718-318-6411
250 Broadway, Suite 1550, New York, NY 10007
212-788-7382
District 10
142-01 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park, NY 11436
Room 711, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Precinct 100 Police Precinct 100 sits in Queens, District 32, AD 23, SD 10.
It contains Queens CB14, Queens CB84, Rockaway Beach-Arverne-Edgemere, Breezy Point-Belle Harbor-Rockaway Park-Broad Channel, Jamaica Bay (East), Jacob Riis Park-Fort Tilden-Breezy Point Tip.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Police Precinct 100
19
Firetruck Kills Cyclist Near Queens Park▸Apr 19 - A firetruck turned onto Juniper Boulevard. The wheels crushed a cyclist. Sirens wailed. Sheets covered the scene. Two firefighters stood stunned. The body lay beneath the truck. One life ended. The street stayed silent.
According to the New York Post (April 19, 2025), an FDNY Rescue Company 4 firetruck struck and killed a cyclist while turning onto Juniper Boulevard near Juniper Valley Park in Queens. The truck was responding to a call with lights and sirens. The victim, reportedly in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene after being trapped under the rear wheels. Photos showed the aftermath, with sheets covering the truck’s back wheels. A witness told the Post, “We stopped at the red light and there was the FDNY truck... One of them seemed concerned, like shaken, like shocked.” The incident is under investigation. The article highlights the risks at intersections and the dangers large emergency vehicles pose to vulnerable road users in city traffic.
-
Firetruck Kills Cyclist Near Queens Park,
New York Post,
Published 2025-04-19
16
Rear-End Crash on Beach Channel Drive Injures Driver▸Apr 16 - Two sedans collided on Beach Channel Drive. One driver suffered a head injury. Police cite driver inattention. The crash left pain and shock in its wake.
A rear-end collision between two sedans on Beach Channel Drive in Queens left a 51-year-old woman with a head injury. According to the police report, driver inattention or distraction contributed to the crash. The report lists one driver as stopped in traffic and the other as going straight ahead. The injured driver complained of pain and nausea and was in shock. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The police report does not mention any other contributing factors before listing safety equipment. The crash highlights the danger when drivers lose focus, as noted by the official report.
4
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School▸Apr 4 - A driver lost control near a Queens school. The car struck two children and a man. A seven-year-old girl’s leg snapped. Sirens wailed. Police arrested the driver. The sidewalk bore the scars. The city’s danger was plain.
According to the New York Post (April 4, 2025), an unlicensed driver reversed into a box truck, then spun onto the sidewalk outside Our World Neighborhood Charter School in Astoria, Queens. The crash injured three: a 7-year-old girl with a broken femur and head injury, a 14-year-old girl with leg injuries, and a 58-year-old man with bruises. The article states, 'Bah was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving and driving without a license.' This incident follows another recent crash involving a suspended license, highlighting recurring risks from unlicensed drivers. The crash underscores the persistent threat cars pose to people on city sidewalks, especially near schools.
-
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School,
New York Post,
Published 2025-04-04
3
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection▸Apr 3 - Two cars struck Jorman Esparza-Olivares at a busy Rego Park crossing. He suffered head and body trauma. Medics rushed him to Elmhurst. He died six days later. Both drivers stayed. No charges. The intersection remains dangerous.
NY Daily News reported on April 3, 2025, that Jorman Esparza-Olivares, 23, was killed after being struck by two drivers while riding his e-bike north on 63rd Drive at Queens Blvd. The crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on March 19. According to police, 'It wasn't clear if any of the men involved in the crash ran a red light.' Esparza-Olivares suffered severe injuries and died six days later at Elmhurst Medical Center. Both drivers, operating a Ford SUV and a Mercedes Benz, remained at the scene and were not immediately charged. The incident highlights persistent risks for cyclists at major intersections and raises questions about traffic controls and driver awareness on Queens Blvd.
-
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-04-03
2
Box Truck Turns, Cyclist Struck in Queens▸Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Apr 19 - A firetruck turned onto Juniper Boulevard. The wheels crushed a cyclist. Sirens wailed. Sheets covered the scene. Two firefighters stood stunned. The body lay beneath the truck. One life ended. The street stayed silent.
According to the New York Post (April 19, 2025), an FDNY Rescue Company 4 firetruck struck and killed a cyclist while turning onto Juniper Boulevard near Juniper Valley Park in Queens. The truck was responding to a call with lights and sirens. The victim, reportedly in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene after being trapped under the rear wheels. Photos showed the aftermath, with sheets covering the truck’s back wheels. A witness told the Post, “We stopped at the red light and there was the FDNY truck... One of them seemed concerned, like shaken, like shocked.” The incident is under investigation. The article highlights the risks at intersections and the dangers large emergency vehicles pose to vulnerable road users in city traffic.
- Firetruck Kills Cyclist Near Queens Park, New York Post, Published 2025-04-19
16
Rear-End Crash on Beach Channel Drive Injures Driver▸Apr 16 - Two sedans collided on Beach Channel Drive. One driver suffered a head injury. Police cite driver inattention. The crash left pain and shock in its wake.
A rear-end collision between two sedans on Beach Channel Drive in Queens left a 51-year-old woman with a head injury. According to the police report, driver inattention or distraction contributed to the crash. The report lists one driver as stopped in traffic and the other as going straight ahead. The injured driver complained of pain and nausea and was in shock. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The police report does not mention any other contributing factors before listing safety equipment. The crash highlights the danger when drivers lose focus, as noted by the official report.
4
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School▸Apr 4 - A driver lost control near a Queens school. The car struck two children and a man. A seven-year-old girl’s leg snapped. Sirens wailed. Police arrested the driver. The sidewalk bore the scars. The city’s danger was plain.
According to the New York Post (April 4, 2025), an unlicensed driver reversed into a box truck, then spun onto the sidewalk outside Our World Neighborhood Charter School in Astoria, Queens. The crash injured three: a 7-year-old girl with a broken femur and head injury, a 14-year-old girl with leg injuries, and a 58-year-old man with bruises. The article states, 'Bah was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving and driving without a license.' This incident follows another recent crash involving a suspended license, highlighting recurring risks from unlicensed drivers. The crash underscores the persistent threat cars pose to people on city sidewalks, especially near schools.
-
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School,
New York Post,
Published 2025-04-04
3
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection▸Apr 3 - Two cars struck Jorman Esparza-Olivares at a busy Rego Park crossing. He suffered head and body trauma. Medics rushed him to Elmhurst. He died six days later. Both drivers stayed. No charges. The intersection remains dangerous.
NY Daily News reported on April 3, 2025, that Jorman Esparza-Olivares, 23, was killed after being struck by two drivers while riding his e-bike north on 63rd Drive at Queens Blvd. The crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on March 19. According to police, 'It wasn't clear if any of the men involved in the crash ran a red light.' Esparza-Olivares suffered severe injuries and died six days later at Elmhurst Medical Center. Both drivers, operating a Ford SUV and a Mercedes Benz, remained at the scene and were not immediately charged. The incident highlights persistent risks for cyclists at major intersections and raises questions about traffic controls and driver awareness on Queens Blvd.
-
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-04-03
2
Box Truck Turns, Cyclist Struck in Queens▸Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Apr 16 - Two sedans collided on Beach Channel Drive. One driver suffered a head injury. Police cite driver inattention. The crash left pain and shock in its wake.
A rear-end collision between two sedans on Beach Channel Drive in Queens left a 51-year-old woman with a head injury. According to the police report, driver inattention or distraction contributed to the crash. The report lists one driver as stopped in traffic and the other as going straight ahead. The injured driver complained of pain and nausea and was in shock. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The police report does not mention any other contributing factors before listing safety equipment. The crash highlights the danger when drivers lose focus, as noted by the official report.
4
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School▸Apr 4 - A driver lost control near a Queens school. The car struck two children and a man. A seven-year-old girl’s leg snapped. Sirens wailed. Police arrested the driver. The sidewalk bore the scars. The city’s danger was plain.
According to the New York Post (April 4, 2025), an unlicensed driver reversed into a box truck, then spun onto the sidewalk outside Our World Neighborhood Charter School in Astoria, Queens. The crash injured three: a 7-year-old girl with a broken femur and head injury, a 14-year-old girl with leg injuries, and a 58-year-old man with bruises. The article states, 'Bah was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving and driving without a license.' This incident follows another recent crash involving a suspended license, highlighting recurring risks from unlicensed drivers. The crash underscores the persistent threat cars pose to people on city sidewalks, especially near schools.
-
Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School,
New York Post,
Published 2025-04-04
3
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection▸Apr 3 - Two cars struck Jorman Esparza-Olivares at a busy Rego Park crossing. He suffered head and body trauma. Medics rushed him to Elmhurst. He died six days later. Both drivers stayed. No charges. The intersection remains dangerous.
NY Daily News reported on April 3, 2025, that Jorman Esparza-Olivares, 23, was killed after being struck by two drivers while riding his e-bike north on 63rd Drive at Queens Blvd. The crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on March 19. According to police, 'It wasn't clear if any of the men involved in the crash ran a red light.' Esparza-Olivares suffered severe injuries and died six days later at Elmhurst Medical Center. Both drivers, operating a Ford SUV and a Mercedes Benz, remained at the scene and were not immediately charged. The incident highlights persistent risks for cyclists at major intersections and raises questions about traffic controls and driver awareness on Queens Blvd.
-
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-04-03
2
Box Truck Turns, Cyclist Struck in Queens▸Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Apr 4 - A driver lost control near a Queens school. The car struck two children and a man. A seven-year-old girl’s leg snapped. Sirens wailed. Police arrested the driver. The sidewalk bore the scars. The city’s danger was plain.
According to the New York Post (April 4, 2025), an unlicensed driver reversed into a box truck, then spun onto the sidewalk outside Our World Neighborhood Charter School in Astoria, Queens. The crash injured three: a 7-year-old girl with a broken femur and head injury, a 14-year-old girl with leg injuries, and a 58-year-old man with bruises. The article states, 'Bah was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, reckless driving and driving without a license.' This incident follows another recent crash involving a suspended license, highlighting recurring risks from unlicensed drivers. The crash underscores the persistent threat cars pose to people on city sidewalks, especially near schools.
- Unlicensed Driver Hits Kids Outside School, New York Post, Published 2025-04-04
3
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection▸Apr 3 - Two cars struck Jorman Esparza-Olivares at a busy Rego Park crossing. He suffered head and body trauma. Medics rushed him to Elmhurst. He died six days later. Both drivers stayed. No charges. The intersection remains dangerous.
NY Daily News reported on April 3, 2025, that Jorman Esparza-Olivares, 23, was killed after being struck by two drivers while riding his e-bike north on 63rd Drive at Queens Blvd. The crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on March 19. According to police, 'It wasn't clear if any of the men involved in the crash ran a red light.' Esparza-Olivares suffered severe injuries and died six days later at Elmhurst Medical Center. Both drivers, operating a Ford SUV and a Mercedes Benz, remained at the scene and were not immediately charged. The incident highlights persistent risks for cyclists at major intersections and raises questions about traffic controls and driver awareness on Queens Blvd.
-
E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-04-03
2
Box Truck Turns, Cyclist Struck in Queens▸Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Apr 3 - Two cars struck Jorman Esparza-Olivares at a busy Rego Park crossing. He suffered head and body trauma. Medics rushed him to Elmhurst. He died six days later. Both drivers stayed. No charges. The intersection remains dangerous.
NY Daily News reported on April 3, 2025, that Jorman Esparza-Olivares, 23, was killed after being struck by two drivers while riding his e-bike north on 63rd Drive at Queens Blvd. The crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on March 19. According to police, 'It wasn't clear if any of the men involved in the crash ran a red light.' Esparza-Olivares suffered severe injuries and died six days later at Elmhurst Medical Center. Both drivers, operating a Ford SUV and a Mercedes Benz, remained at the scene and were not immediately charged. The incident highlights persistent risks for cyclists at major intersections and raises questions about traffic controls and driver awareness on Queens Blvd.
- E-Bike Rider Killed At Queens Intersection, NY Daily News, Published 2025-04-03
2
Box Truck Turns, Cyclist Struck in Queens▸Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Apr 2 - A box truck turned right on Rockaway Beach Blvd. The driver failed to see a cyclist heading straight. The cyclist, 48, hit the truck and suffered a hip injury. Police cite driver distraction.
A box truck making a right turn on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens struck a cyclist traveling straight. The 48-year-old cyclist suffered a hip and upper leg injury. According to the police report, 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' was listed as a contributing factor. The truck's right rear quarter panel was hit by the front of the bike. No injuries were reported for the truck driver or other occupants. The cyclist was not using safety equipment, but the police report highlights driver distraction as the key factor.
28
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash▸Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
-
Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 28 - A speeding Mercedes ran a red in Queens. The driver, high and drunk, struck a young airport worker headed to his job. The worker died. Two passengers survived. The driver, a probationary firefighter, now faces manslaughter charges.
NY Daily News reported on March 28, 2025, that Michael Pena, a probationary FDNY firefighter, was fired after being charged with vehicular manslaughter in a Queens crash. Prosecutors said Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and struck Justin Diaz, 23, who had the right-of-way. Pena's blood-alcohol content was 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he tested positive for cocaine and marijuana. The article states, 'Pena was driving nearly 60 mph above the speed limit after a night of drinking at a bar.' Surveillance footage confirmed the sequence. Two passengers in Pena's car were hospitalized. The crash highlights ongoing risks from impaired and reckless driving, even among public servants.
- Firefighter Charged After Fatal Queens Crash, NY Daily News, Published 2025-03-28
22
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Eastbound Bicyclist▸Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 22 - A sedan making a right turn collided with an eastbound bicyclist on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens. The bicyclist suffered moderate back injuries and burns. Police cited driver inattention and bicyclist confusion as contributing factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Rockaway Beach Blvd in Queens at 1:30 PM. A sedan traveling north was making a right turn when it struck a bicyclist traveling east. The point of impact was the sedan's right front bumper and the bike's left rear quarter panel. The bicyclist, a 59-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained moderate back injuries and burns but was conscious at the scene. The report lists 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as a primary contributing factor, indicating the sedan driver failed to properly observe the bicyclist. The bicyclist's own confusion or error is also noted but only after the driver’s fault. The sedan driver’s license status and identity were not specified, but the bike rider was unlicensed. This collision highlights the dangers posed by distracted drivers making turns in busy urban corridors.
20
Sedan Crashes on Slippery Queens Boulevard▸Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 20 - A sedan driver suffered bruises and arm injuries after losing control on slippery pavement along Rockaway Beach Boulevard. The crash occurred early morning, highlighting hazardous road conditions and driver vulnerability in Queens.
According to the police report, a 29-year-old male sedan driver was injured in a crash on Rockaway Beach Boulevard in Queens at 5:17 a.m. The driver, who was wearing a lap belt and harness, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The report cites slippery pavement as a contributing factor to the crash. The vehicle's point of impact was the left front bumper, indicating loss of control while traveling east. The driver was conscious and not ejected from the vehicle. No other contributing driver errors were noted, and no pedestrian or cyclist was involved. The crash underscores the dangers posed by road surface conditions and their impact on vehicle control.
14
Alcohol-Impaired Driver Injures Self in Queens Crash▸Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 14 - A 57-year-old woman driving east on Beach 88 St lost consciousness after a collision. The sedan struck an object front-center, causing chest injuries and bruising. Alcohol involvement was a key factor in the crash and injury severity.
According to the police report, a 57-year-old female driver was operating a 2021 Toyota sedan eastbound on Beach 88 St in Queens at 11:40 PM. The vehicle sustained damage to the center front end, indicating a frontal collision. The driver was injured with chest contusions and bruises and remained conscious after the crash. The report identifies alcohol involvement and loss of consciousness as contributing factors to the crash. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved. The report highlights the driver’s impairment due to alcohol as the primary cause of the crash and subsequent injury.
13
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
-
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 13 - A car hit a man and a child in Flushing. The man lay trapped under the vehicle. Both went to the hospital. The man’s injuries were critical. The driver stayed at the scene. Police are still investigating.
ABC7 reported on March 13, 2025, that a car struck two pedestrians at 32nd Avenue and 138th Street in Queens. Police found an adult man pinned under the vehicle and a child, aged 8 to 10, also injured. Both were hospitalized, with the man in critical condition. The article states, 'Police responded...and found an adult man pinned under a vehicle.' The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation continues. The crash highlights the ongoing risk to pedestrians at city intersections. No charges or details on driver actions were released at the time of reporting.
- Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash, ABC7, Published 2025-03-13
4
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
-
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Mar 4 - A drunk, speeding firefighter ran a red light in Queens. He slammed into Justin Diaz’s car. Diaz died. He was 23. His family buried him with his new degree. The firefighter faces charges. The street remains unchanged.
According to the NY Daily News (2025-03-04), Justin Diaz, 23, was killed when an off-duty FDNY firefighter, Michael Pena, sped through a red light at 83 mph in a 25 mph zone and struck Diaz’s BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd. Diaz was heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. Prosecutors say Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and refused a breath test. His blood-alcohol content was 0.156 percent. Surveillance footage confirmed Diaz had the right-of-way. The article notes, 'The victim had the right-of-way, and Pena ran a steady red light, prosecutors say.' Pena was charged with vehicular manslaughter and DWI. His license was suspended. The case highlights ongoing dangers for New York City road users and questions about bail and accountability for reckless drivers.
- Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker, NY Daily News, Published 2025-03-04
27
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens▸Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
-
Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 27 - A firefighter, drunk and high, sped through a red light at 83 mph. He smashed into Justin Diaz’s BMW. Diaz died. The crash tore a family apart. The driver walked free on bail. The street stayed deadly.
NY Daily News reported on February 27, 2025, that off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz in Queens. Prosecutors said Pena was drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and driving 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he ran a red light and struck Diaz’s BMW. Surveillance footage showed the Mercedes 'barreled through an East Elmhurst intersection' at 4:15 a.m. Diaz, headed to work at LaGuardia, died at the scene. Pena refused a breath test; a blood draw later confirmed drug use. He was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to submit to testing, but posted $50,000 bail. The article highlights family grief and outrage at bail laws, quoting Diaz’s brother: 'Pena will walk the streets for a $50,000 bail... Justin will never walk the streets again.'
- Drunk Firefighter Kills Driver In Queens, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-27
26
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver▸Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
-
FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 26 - A firefighter sped through a red light in Queens. His Mercedes slammed into a BMW. The BMW driver died. The firefighter, drunk, refused a breath test. Passengers hurt. Bystanders rushed to help. The street stayed deadly, silent after.
According to NY Daily News (2025-02-26), FDNY firefighter Michael Pena, 28, faces charges after allegedly running a red light while intoxicated and T-boning a BMW at 107th St. and Northern Blvd., East Elmhurst. The crash killed 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Surveillance video showed Pena's Mercedes plowing into Diaz's BMW, which then struck a parked minivan. Pena refused a breath test and was uninjured. Two Mercedes passengers were hospitalized. The article notes, 'The FDNY stated Pena will be suspended without pay for 28 days during the investigation.' Video evidence indicated Diaz entered the intersection legally, with the pedestrian signal allowing crossing. The incident highlights the lethal risk of speeding and red-light running, even in early morning hours.
- FDNY Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Driver, NY Daily News, Published 2025-02-26
19
SUV Turns Left, Strikes Pedestrian in Crosswalk▸Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 19 - A Toyota SUV turned left on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, metal striking a woman’s chest as she crossed with the signal. She fell hard, crushed and silent, the car untouched. The sea waited beyond, indifferent to blood on the street.
According to the police report, a Toyota SUV made a left turn at Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street in Queens. As the vehicle turned, it struck a 36-year-old woman who was crossing the intersection with the signal. The report states, 'She crossed with the light. The Toyota turned left. Metal met chest. She dropped to the pavement. Crush injuries.' The pedestrian suffered severe chest injuries and fell to the ground. The SUV sustained no damage, and the report notes silence after the impact. The driver’s action—turning left while a pedestrian was lawfully in the crosswalk—created the deadly conflict. The police report lists the pedestrian’s action as 'Crossing With Signal,' underscoring that she had the right of way. No driver error is specified in the contributing factors, but the narrative and sequence of events center the danger of turning vehicles at intersections where pedestrians are present.
14
Minivan Crash Kills Woman, Injures Three▸Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 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
8
Woman Killed In Queens Parkway Crash▸Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 8 - 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
5
Unlicensed Driver Flees Queens Fatal Crash▸Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Feb 5 - 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
30
Sedan Overturns After Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle▸Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Jan 30 - A sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned after the driver reacted to an uninvolved vehicle. The 32-year-old male driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash. The crash caused serious harm despite the driver wearing a lap belt and harness.
According to the police report, a 32-year-old male driver in a 2011 Nissan sedan traveling south on Cross Bay Blvd overturned the vehicle after reacting to an uninvolved vehicle. The report lists 'Reaction to Uninvolved Vehicle' as the contributing factor twice, indicating the driver's response to external traffic conditions led to the crash. The driver was not ejected and was conscious but sustained neck injuries and whiplash, classified as injury severity 3. The driver was properly restrained with a lap belt and harness. The vehicle's point of impact was the center front end, and the crash resulted in the sedan overturning. No pedestrian or cyclist was involved, and no victim behaviors were cited as contributing factors.
22
Uber Driver Dies in Queens Crash▸Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Jan 22 - 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
19
SUV Collision Injures Two Child Passengers▸Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.
Jan 19 - An SUV traveling east on Rockaway Fwy struck an object or vehicle, injuring two child passengers. Both suffered bruises and contusions to chest and lower limbs. The driver was using a hands-free cell phone, contributing to the crash.
According to the police report, a 2012 Honda SUV driven by a licensed female driver was traveling east on Rockaway Fwy in Queens at 19:27 when it crashed. The vehicle sustained damage to its center front end. Two child occupants, ages 6 and 14, seated in the right rear and front passenger seats respectively, were injured with contusions and bruises to the chest and lower leg areas. Both children were conscious and restrained with lap belts and harnesses. The report identifies the driver’s use of a hands-free cell phone as a contributing factor to the crash, indicating driver distraction. No other contributing factors or victim behaviors were noted. The injuries occurred inside the vehicle, with no ejections reported.