Who’s Injuring and Killing Pedestrians in Precinct 114?
Queens’ Streets, Queens’ Blood: How Many More?
Precinct 114: Jan 1, 2022 - Jul 18, 2025
The Numbers Do Not Lie
Fourteen dead. Twenty-one left with injuries that will not heal. In just over three years, Precinct 114 has seen 5,200 crashes. More than 2,700 people hurt. The dead include children, cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. The living carry scars—some seen, most not.
Recent Crashes: No End in Sight
Last week, an MTA bus in Queens jumped the curb at 57th Road and Main Street. Eight people were hurt. The driver, just 25, told investigators he “misjudged the curb.” But after reviewing the video, officials said he “had fallen asleep at the wheel.” The MTA pulled him from service. “I was all the way in the back and all of a sudden the bus hit the curb, I guess, jumped the curb, I went this way and that way and banged into the side of the bus,” said one passenger. The pole came down. The bus’s nose crumpled. The sidewalk was almost not empty.
On Astoria Boulevard, a 17-year-old died in a crash involving three sedans. The data does not say his name. It does not say who waited for him to come home. It only says he is gone. NYC Open Data
Who Pays the Price?
SUVs and sedans do most of the harm. In this precinct, cars and trucks caused 2 deaths, 4 serious injuries, and more than 400 crashes with injury. Motorcycles and mopeds left one dead, one seriously hurt. Bikes, too, have left their mark—one dead, one seriously hurt. The numbers are small. The pain is not.
Leadership: Promises and Silence
The city has new tools. Speed limits can be lowered. Cameras can catch the reckless. But change comes slow. The police in Precinct 114 have the power to enforce the law. They can crack down on speeding, failure to yield, reckless turns. They can target the corners where people keep getting hurt. They just need to act.
The Call
Every day of delay is another family broken. Call your council member. Call the mayor. Tell them to lower the speed limit, enforce the law, and make the streets safe for the living. Do not wait for another name on the list.
Frequently Asked Questions
▸ Where does Precinct 114 sit politically?
▸ Which areas are in Precinct 114?
▸ What types of vehicles caused injuries and deaths to pedestrians in Precinct 114?
▸ What can police do to protect vulnerable road users here?
▸ Are crashes preventable or just 'accidents'?
▸ What can local politicians do?
▸ What is CrashCount?
Citations
▸ Citations
- MTA Bus Slams Curb, Injures Seven, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Bus Jumps Curb, Eight Injured In Flushing, ABC7, Published 2025-07-11
- Motor Vehicle Collisions – CrashID 4734553 - Crashes, Persons, Vehicles , NYC Open Data, Accessed 2025-07-18
- E-Bike Rider Killed In Police Chase, New York Post, Published 2025-07-13
- Eight Injured As MTA Bus Hits Pole, CBS New York, Published 2025-07-11
- Chain-Reaction Crash Kills Two On Belt Parkway, amny, Published 2025-07-10
Other Representatives
District 34
75-35 31st Ave. Suite 206B (2nd Floor), East Elmhurst, NY 11370
Room 654, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248
District 22
30-83 31st Street, Astoria, NY 11102
718-274-4500
250 Broadway, Suite 1778, New York, NY 10007
212-788-6969
District 11
134-01 20th Avenue 2nd Floor, College Point, NY 11356
Room 913, Legislative Office Building 188 State St., Albany, NY 12247
▸ Other Geographies
Precinct 114 Police Precinct 114 sits in Queens, District 22, AD 34, SD 11.
It contains Queens CB1, North & South Brother Islands, Upper East Side-Lenox Hill-Roosevelt Island, Astoria (North)-Ditmars-Steinway, Old Astoria-Hallets Point, Astoria (Central), Astoria (East)-Woodside (North), Queensbridge-Ravenswood-Dutch Kills, Rikers Island, Sunnyside Yards (North), St. Michael'S Cemetery, Astoria Park.
▸ See also
Traffic Safety Timeline for Police Precinct 114
2Sedan Turning Improperly Collides with SUVs in Queens▸A sedan making a right turn struck two vehicles stopped in traffic on Steinway Street, Queens. The impact injured the sedan’s driver and front passenger, causing bodily injuries and shock. Driver error of turning improperly triggered the crash.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Steinway Street in Queens around 10:00 AM. A 2024 Jeep sedan was making a right turn when it collided with two vehicles—a 2014 Acura sedan and a 2016 Hyundai SUV—both stopped in traffic heading south. The point of impact was the left front bumper of the turning sedan against the left rear quarter panel of the Acura and the left front bumper of the Hyundai. The report cites 'Turning Improperly' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error by the sedan operator. The sedan’s driver, a 44-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered upper arm and shoulder injuries with complaint of pain and nausea and was in shock. The front passenger, a 43-year-old woman, also sustained injuries to her entire body and was in shock. No victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors.
2Two Taxis Slam in Queens Intersection▸Two taxis crashed hard on 33rd Street. Both drivers hurt. Impact crushed doors and front ends. Police cite unsafe speed, traffic control ignored. Metal twisted. Night air thick with sirens.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 33rd Street and 37th Avenue in Queens at 11:45 p.m. Both drivers, men aged 48 and 20, suffered injuries including whiplash and bodily trauma. The first taxi was hit on its right side doors; the second took damage to its front end. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. Both wore seat belts and harnesses. The crash was caused by failure to obey traffic controls and driving too fast, leading to a violent impact between the two licensed taxi drivers.
Queens Taxi Collision Injures Driver▸Two taxis collided on Queens' 79th Street. The driver of one taxi suffered a head injury and whiplash. Police cite failure to yield right-of-way as the cause. Both vehicles struck front and rear, leaving one driver injured but conscious.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 79th Street and Ditmars Boulevard in Queens at 12:52 PM. The driver of one taxi, a 52-year-old man, sustained a head injury and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. The report identifies 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead, with one taxi striking the center front end of the other, which was hit on its left rear bumper. The injured driver was not wearing any safety equipment. The collision and resulting injuries highlight the dangers posed by driver errors such as failure to yield, emphasizing systemic risks in vehicle interactions.
Queens Crash Injures Female Driver Amid Faulty Signals▸A Queens driver suffered knee and lower leg injuries in a collision involving two parked vehicles. The crash unfolded on 37 Avenue, where malfunctioning traffic control devices contributed to the impact. The driver remained conscious and was not ejected.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 8:13 AM on 37 Avenue in Queens. The injured party was a 42-year-old female driver who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious and was not ejected from her vehicle. The collision involved two parked vehicles: a 2021 Toyota truck and a 2021 Toyota sedan. The contributing factor cited was 'Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working,' indicating that malfunctioning traffic signals played a role in the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other driver errors or victim behaviors were noted. Vehicle damage was concentrated on the right rear quarter panel of the truck and the right front bumper of the sedan, confirming the point of impact. The report highlights systemic danger from faulty traffic control devices rather than driver negligence.
Box Truck Slams Flatbed on BQE▸Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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.
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Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
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Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan making a right turn struck two vehicles stopped in traffic on Steinway Street, Queens. The impact injured the sedan’s driver and front passenger, causing bodily injuries and shock. Driver error of turning improperly triggered the crash.
According to the police report, the crash occurred on Steinway Street in Queens around 10:00 AM. A 2024 Jeep sedan was making a right turn when it collided with two vehicles—a 2014 Acura sedan and a 2016 Hyundai SUV—both stopped in traffic heading south. The point of impact was the left front bumper of the turning sedan against the left rear quarter panel of the Acura and the left front bumper of the Hyundai. The report cites 'Turning Improperly' as the contributing factor, indicating driver error by the sedan operator. The sedan’s driver, a 44-year-old man wearing a lap belt and harness, suffered upper arm and shoulder injuries with complaint of pain and nausea and was in shock. The front passenger, a 43-year-old woman, also sustained injuries to her entire body and was in shock. No victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors.
2Two Taxis Slam in Queens Intersection▸Two taxis crashed hard on 33rd Street. Both drivers hurt. Impact crushed doors and front ends. Police cite unsafe speed, traffic control ignored. Metal twisted. Night air thick with sirens.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 33rd Street and 37th Avenue in Queens at 11:45 p.m. Both drivers, men aged 48 and 20, suffered injuries including whiplash and bodily trauma. The first taxi was hit on its right side doors; the second took damage to its front end. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. Both wore seat belts and harnesses. The crash was caused by failure to obey traffic controls and driving too fast, leading to a violent impact between the two licensed taxi drivers.
Queens Taxi Collision Injures Driver▸Two taxis collided on Queens' 79th Street. The driver of one taxi suffered a head injury and whiplash. Police cite failure to yield right-of-way as the cause. Both vehicles struck front and rear, leaving one driver injured but conscious.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 79th Street and Ditmars Boulevard in Queens at 12:52 PM. The driver of one taxi, a 52-year-old man, sustained a head injury and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. The report identifies 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead, with one taxi striking the center front end of the other, which was hit on its left rear bumper. The injured driver was not wearing any safety equipment. The collision and resulting injuries highlight the dangers posed by driver errors such as failure to yield, emphasizing systemic risks in vehicle interactions.
Queens Crash Injures Female Driver Amid Faulty Signals▸A Queens driver suffered knee and lower leg injuries in a collision involving two parked vehicles. The crash unfolded on 37 Avenue, where malfunctioning traffic control devices contributed to the impact. The driver remained conscious and was not ejected.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 8:13 AM on 37 Avenue in Queens. The injured party was a 42-year-old female driver who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious and was not ejected from her vehicle. The collision involved two parked vehicles: a 2021 Toyota truck and a 2021 Toyota sedan. The contributing factor cited was 'Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working,' indicating that malfunctioning traffic signals played a role in the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other driver errors or victim behaviors were noted. Vehicle damage was concentrated on the right rear quarter panel of the truck and the right front bumper of the sedan, confirming the point of impact. The report highlights systemic danger from faulty traffic control devices rather than driver negligence.
Box Truck Slams Flatbed on BQE▸Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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.
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Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
Two taxis crashed hard on 33rd Street. Both drivers hurt. Impact crushed doors and front ends. Police cite unsafe speed, traffic control ignored. Metal twisted. Night air thick with sirens.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 33rd Street and 37th Avenue in Queens at 11:45 p.m. Both drivers, men aged 48 and 20, suffered injuries including whiplash and bodily trauma. The first taxi was hit on its right side doors; the second took damage to its front end. The report lists 'Traffic Control Disregarded' and 'Unsafe Speed' as contributing factors for both drivers. Both wore seat belts and harnesses. The crash was caused by failure to obey traffic controls and driving too fast, leading to a violent impact between the two licensed taxi drivers.
Queens Taxi Collision Injures Driver▸Two taxis collided on Queens' 79th Street. The driver of one taxi suffered a head injury and whiplash. Police cite failure to yield right-of-way as the cause. Both vehicles struck front and rear, leaving one driver injured but conscious.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 79th Street and Ditmars Boulevard in Queens at 12:52 PM. The driver of one taxi, a 52-year-old man, sustained a head injury and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. The report identifies 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead, with one taxi striking the center front end of the other, which was hit on its left rear bumper. The injured driver was not wearing any safety equipment. The collision and resulting injuries highlight the dangers posed by driver errors such as failure to yield, emphasizing systemic risks in vehicle interactions.
Queens Crash Injures Female Driver Amid Faulty Signals▸A Queens driver suffered knee and lower leg injuries in a collision involving two parked vehicles. The crash unfolded on 37 Avenue, where malfunctioning traffic control devices contributed to the impact. The driver remained conscious and was not ejected.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 8:13 AM on 37 Avenue in Queens. The injured party was a 42-year-old female driver who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious and was not ejected from her vehicle. The collision involved two parked vehicles: a 2021 Toyota truck and a 2021 Toyota sedan. The contributing factor cited was 'Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working,' indicating that malfunctioning traffic signals played a role in the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other driver errors or victim behaviors were noted. Vehicle damage was concentrated on the right rear quarter panel of the truck and the right front bumper of the sedan, confirming the point of impact. The report highlights systemic danger from faulty traffic control devices rather than driver negligence.
Box Truck Slams Flatbed on BQE▸Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
Two taxis collided on Queens' 79th Street. The driver of one taxi suffered a head injury and whiplash. Police cite failure to yield right-of-way as the cause. Both vehicles struck front and rear, leaving one driver injured but conscious.
According to the police report, two taxis collided at 79th Street and Ditmars Boulevard in Queens at 12:52 PM. The driver of one taxi, a 52-year-old man, sustained a head injury and whiplash but remained conscious and was not ejected. The report identifies 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as a contributing factor to the crash. Both vehicles were traveling straight ahead, with one taxi striking the center front end of the other, which was hit on its left rear bumper. The injured driver was not wearing any safety equipment. The collision and resulting injuries highlight the dangers posed by driver errors such as failure to yield, emphasizing systemic risks in vehicle interactions.
Queens Crash Injures Female Driver Amid Faulty Signals▸A Queens driver suffered knee and lower leg injuries in a collision involving two parked vehicles. The crash unfolded on 37 Avenue, where malfunctioning traffic control devices contributed to the impact. The driver remained conscious and was not ejected.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 8:13 AM on 37 Avenue in Queens. The injured party was a 42-year-old female driver who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious and was not ejected from her vehicle. The collision involved two parked vehicles: a 2021 Toyota truck and a 2021 Toyota sedan. The contributing factor cited was 'Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working,' indicating that malfunctioning traffic signals played a role in the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other driver errors or victim behaviors were noted. Vehicle damage was concentrated on the right rear quarter panel of the truck and the right front bumper of the sedan, confirming the point of impact. The report highlights systemic danger from faulty traffic control devices rather than driver negligence.
Box Truck Slams Flatbed on BQE▸Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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.
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Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker,
NY Daily News,
Published 2025-03-04
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
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Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A Queens driver suffered knee and lower leg injuries in a collision involving two parked vehicles. The crash unfolded on 37 Avenue, where malfunctioning traffic control devices contributed to the impact. The driver remained conscious and was not ejected.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 8:13 AM on 37 Avenue in Queens. The injured party was a 42-year-old female driver who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot but remained conscious and was not ejected from her vehicle. The collision involved two parked vehicles: a 2021 Toyota truck and a 2021 Toyota sedan. The contributing factor cited was 'Traffic Control Device Improper/Non-Working,' indicating that malfunctioning traffic signals played a role in the crash. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. No other driver errors or victim behaviors were noted. Vehicle damage was concentrated on the right rear quarter panel of the truck and the right front bumper of the sedan, confirming the point of impact. The report highlights systemic danger from faulty traffic control devices rather than driver negligence.
Box Truck Slams Flatbed on BQE▸Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
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Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
Box truck rear-ends flatbed on Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Driver suffers eye abrasion. Police cite tailgating and distraction. Metal crunches. One man hurt. Road stays dangerous.
According to the police report, a box truck struck a flatbed truck on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway at 14:10. Both vehicles were heading west. The box truck driver, a 38-year-old man, was injured with an eye abrasion but remained conscious. The box truck took damage to its right front bumper; the flatbed was undamaged. Police list 'Following Too Closely' and 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as contributing factors. No victim actions contributed to the crash. The collision shows the risk when drivers tailgate and lose focus on fast-moving city highways.
Sedan Strikes Pedestrian Crossing Outside Intersection▸A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A 41-year-old woman suffered severe leg injuries after a sedan made a right turn and struck her while she crossed Steinway Street outside a crosswalk. The vehicle showed no damage, highlighting the force of impact on the pedestrian.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling north on Steinway Street made a right turn and struck a 41-year-old female pedestrian crossing outside an intersection without a signal or crosswalk. The pedestrian sustained fractures and dislocations to her knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity 3. The vehicle, a 2016 Dodge sedan, showed no damage at the center front end impact point. The report lists no specific driver contributing factors, but the pedestrian was crossing outside a designated signal or crosswalk area. The driver was licensed and operating the vehicle legally. The incident underscores the dangers posed by vehicle maneuvers near pedestrians crossing outside intersections.
Sedan Turns Right, Strikes Westbound Bicyclist▸A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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.
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Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-03-13
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan making a right turn collided with a westbound bicyclist on 31 Ave in Queens. The cyclist was ejected and suffered upper arm injuries. Police cited driver inattention as a key factor in the crash that left the rider in shock.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 11:25 AM on 31 Ave in Queens when a sedan was making a right turn and struck a bicyclist traveling westbound. The point of impact was the center front end of both vehicles. The bicyclist, a 31-year-old male, was ejected from his bike and sustained upper arm and shoulder injuries, classified as injury severity level 3. The police report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' as the contributing factor for the sedan driver. The cyclist was not wearing any safety equipment. There was no damage reported on the sedan, indicating the impact was primarily to the bike and rider. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist's behavior. The crash highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers.
Man And Child Struck In Queens Crash▸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
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
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Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
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
SUV Fails to Yield, Strikes Elderly Pedestrian▸A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A 94-year-old woman crossing Broadway with the signal was hit by an SUV making a right turn. She suffered fractures and dislocations to her leg and foot. The driver failed to yield. The street stayed loud.
According to the police report, a 94-year-old woman was crossing Broadway at 48th Street in Queens with the signal when a 2023 SUV struck her with its right front bumper. The crash happened at 5:30 p.m. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including fractures and dislocations. She remained conscious after the impact. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' as the primary contributing factor attributed to the driver. The victim was crossing legally. No vehicle damage was reported. The police report lists no other contributing factors.
Sedan Rear-Ended by FD Truck on Astoria Blvd▸A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan parked on Astoria Boulevard was struck in the rear by a fire department truck making a right turn. The sedan’s female driver suffered neck injuries and whiplash but remained conscious and restrained by a lap belt.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:42 in Queens on Astoria Boulevard near 27th Street. A 2014 sedan, parked facing west, was hit in the right rear bumper by a fire department truck making a right turn traveling south. The sedan’s female driver, age 33, was injured with neck trauma and whiplash but was conscious and wearing a lap belt at the time. The report lists unspecified contributing factors for the driver but does not assign fault or blame to the victim. The collision point and vehicle damage indicate the truck struck the sedan from behind during the turn. No pedestrians or cyclists were involved. The data highlights the danger posed by emergency vehicle maneuvers intersecting with parked vehicles.
Sedan Turns Right, Injures Bicyclist on Northern Blvd▸A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
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Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
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Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
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Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A 27-year-old male bicyclist was partially ejected and injured with back abrasions when a sedan made a right turn on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash involved failure to yield right-of-way and improper turning by the sedan driver.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 7:25 AM on Northern Blvd near 36 Ave in Queens. A sedan, traveling west and making a right turn, collided with a 27-year-old male bicyclist also traveling west. The bicyclist was partially ejected and sustained back abrasions, classified as injury severity level 3. The report cites the sedan driver's failure to yield right-of-way and turning improperly as contributing factors. The bicyclist was the driver of the e-bike and was conscious after the crash. Vehicle damage was minimal, with no damage reported to either the sedan or the e-bike. The report does not list any contributing factors related to the bicyclist’s behavior or safety equipment.
Truck Right Turn Hits E-Scooter Rider▸A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A tractor truck turning right struck a northbound e-scooter on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The 27-year-old female rider was ejected and injured, suffering contusions and leg trauma. Police cite driver inattention and failure to yield as key factors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A 27-year-old female e-scooter driver was traveling northbound when a tractor truck, making a right turn southwest, collided with her on the left side doors. The impact ejected the rider, who sustained injuries to her knee, lower leg, and foot, including contusions and bruises, and was reported in shock. The report identifies 'Driver Inattention/Distraction' and 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' by the e-scooter driver as contributing factors. The truck driver was licensed and operating a 2024 Volvo tractor truck. The collision caused damage to the center front end of the truck and the left side doors of the e-scooter. No safety equipment was noted for the e-scooter rider.
Sedan Passes Too Closely, Injures Bicyclist▸A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan entering a parked position passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist on Vernon Blvd in Queens. The cyclist suffered a head contusion and bruising but remained conscious. The collision caused damage to the bike’s front right side.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 19:21 on Vernon Blvd in Queens. A northbound sedan was entering a parked position when it passed too closely to a northbound bicyclist, who was making a right turn. The report cites 'Passing Too Closely' as the contributing factor. The bicyclist, a 29-year-old male, suffered a head injury described as a contusion and bruise but was conscious and not ejected. The bike sustained damage to its right front bumper. The sedan showed no damage. Driver error in failing to maintain safe clearance led to the collision, highlighting the dangers cyclists face from vehicle maneuvers in close proximity.
Firefighter Runs Red, Kills Airport Worker▸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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
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
Sedan Rear-Ends Helmeted Teen Bicyclist▸A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A 17-year-old bicyclist wearing a helmet suffered bruises and arm injuries after a sedan struck him from behind on Northern Blvd in Queens. The crash occurred at 5 p.m. The driver’s failure to maintain distance caused the impact.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Northern Blvd collided with a westbound bicyclist at 5 p.m. The bicyclist, a 17-year-old male wearing a helmet, sustained contusions and injuries to his elbow, lower arm, and hand. The point of impact was the center front end of the sedan striking the center back end of the bike. The report cites the sedan driver’s error as "Following Too Closely," compounded by "Glare," which contributed to the crash. The sedan driver was licensed and driving straight ahead. The bicyclist was not ejected and remained conscious. Vehicle damage was centered on the sedan’s front and the bike’s rear. This collision highlights the dangers posed by insufficient following distance and visibility issues on busy Queens streets.
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash▸A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
-
Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A speeding Mercedes tore through a red light in Queens. The driver, off-duty FDNY, struck a BMW. The crash ripped off the roof. The 23-year-old inside died. The firefighter stayed at the scene, reeking of alcohol, unsteady, charged with manslaughter.
ABC7 reported on February 28, 2025, that off-duty firefighter Michael Pena was arraigned after a fatal crash in East Elmhurst, Queens. Prosecutors say Pena drove 83 mph in a 25 mph zone, ran a red light, and t-boned a BMW, killing 23-year-old Justin Diaz. The article quotes DA Melinda Katz: "An FDNY firefighter who was off duty is accused of driving under the influence, running a steady red light and slamming into a 23-year-old motorist, killing him, as he drove more than three times the posted speed limit." Pena's blood alcohol content was .156 percent, and he allegedly had drugs in his system. The BMW was sent flying into a parked car, its roof torn off. Pena faces manslaughter and related charges. The case highlights the lethal risk of extreme speeding and impaired driving on city streets.
- Firefighter Charged After Deadly Queens Crash, ABC7, Published 2025-02-28
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens▸A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
-
Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens,
New York Post,
Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A firefighter ran a red. Metal struck metal. A young man died. The street echoed with sirens. Two more rode to the hospital. The city keeps count. The danger stays.
According to the New York Post (February 27, 2025), off-duty FDNY firefighter Michael Pena drove through a red light at Northern Boulevard and 107th Street in Queens, striking Justin Diaz’s car. Surveillance video captured Pena’s Mercedes “passing a red light on Northern Boulevard and T-boning Diaz’s 2022 BMW.” Diaz, 23, died at Elmhurst Hospital. Pena faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breath test. Two passengers in Pena’s car were hospitalized. The FDNY suspended Pena for 28 days without pay. The crash highlights the lethal consequences of red-light running and impaired driving, raising questions about enforcement and accountability on city streets.
- Red Light Crash Kills Driver in Queens, New York Post, Published 2025-02-27
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker▸A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
-
Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker,
ABC7,
Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A Mercedes ran a red on Northern Boulevard. It hit a BMW. The BMW’s roof tore off. The driver, Justin Diaz, died. The Mercedes driver, off-duty FDNY, was arrested. Friends mourned by candles. The street stayed empty. Speed ruled the night.
ABC7 reported on February 26, 2025, that a fatal crash in East Elmhurst left one driver dead and another in custody. The article states, "It appears the driver of the Mercedes blew a red light and t-boned the BMW at a high rate of speed." The BMW’s driver, Justin Diaz, was killed. The Mercedes driver, an off-duty firefighter, was charged with vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer. The FDNY suspended him without pay. Witnesses noted frequent speeding on the boulevard at night. The crash highlights the persistent risks of high-speed driving and lax overnight enforcement on city streets.
- Red Light Run Kills Ramp Worker, ABC7, Published 2025-02-26
Distracted Driver Hits Pedestrian Crossing Vernon Blvd▸A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan making a left turn struck a 36-year-old pedestrian crossing Vernon Boulevard outside an intersection. The pedestrian suffered abrasions and lower leg injuries. The driver’s inattention caused the collision, leaving the victim injured and conscious.
According to the police report, a sedan traveling west on Vernon Boulevard was making a left turn when it struck a 36-year-old male pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk or signal. The pedestrian sustained abrasions and injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot, classified as injury severity level 3. The report explicitly cites "Driver Inattention/Distraction" as the primary contributing factor to the crash. The pedestrian was conscious after the collision and did not contribute to the crash according to the report. The vehicle showed no damage despite the center front end impact. This incident highlights the dangers posed by driver distraction during turning maneuvers in Queens.
Sedan Strikes Moped on Queens Street▸A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.
A sedan starting from parking struck a moped traveling east on 45th Street in Queens. The moped driver, partially ejected and injured in the lower leg, suffered shock and pain. The sedan’s left front bumper hit the moped’s right side doors.
According to the police report, the crash occurred at 14:50 on 45th Street in Queens. A sedan, traveling north and starting from parking, collided with a moped going straight east. The point of impact was the sedan’s center front end against the moped’s right side doors. The moped driver, a 38-year-old male, was partially ejected and sustained injuries to his knee, lower leg, and foot. He was reported to be in shock and complained of pain or nausea. The report cites 'Failure to Yield Right-of-Way' and 'View Obstructed/Limited' as contributing factors on the part of the sedan driver. The moped driver wore a helmet, but no victim behaviors were listed as contributing factors. The sedan’s left front bumper was damaged, indicating the force and location of impact.