According to police, Kenyatta Junior Weston, 31, was arrested and charged Tuesday in connection with the Feb. 8, 2025 crash on the Belt Parkway near 233rd Street in Laurelton, Queens. Prosecutors charged Weston with manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, assault, reckless driving, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and multiple speeding violations. Authorities also recovered a firearm from the wrecked vehicle.
Police say Weston was speeding eastbound around 3:47 a.m. when he crashed into a row of sand barrels along the parkway. The impact was so severe that Elizabeth Vanessa Perla Hernandez, 27, was ejected from the Toyota. Emergency responders rushed her to Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Weston was also ejected from the vehicle and transported to North Shore University Hospital in critical condition.
Criminal Charges vs. Civil Liability After a Fatal Crash
When a fatal crash results in criminal charges such as vehicular manslaughter or driving while intoxicated, the criminal case focuses on punishment. However, a criminal prosecution does not provide financial compensation to the victim’s family.
Families may also pursue a wrongful death lawsuit in civil court, which allows them to seek compensation for the devastating losses caused by the crash. A civil claim can help recover damages including:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses related to the victim’s injuries
- Loss of financial support the victim would have provided
- Loss of parental guidance and services
- Pain and suffering experienced before death
In many fatal crash cases, evidence from the criminal investigation—such as toxicology reports, speed analysis, and witness statements—can play an important role in establishing civil liability.
Drunk Driving and High-Speed Crashes on the Belt Parkway
The Belt Parkway has long been a dangerous corridor for high-speed crashes, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when impaired driving is more common. Allegations of drunk driving combined with excessive speed significantly increase the likelihood of catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
When alcohol impairment is involved, a civil lawsuit may also explore additional avenues of liability, including whether bars or establishments may have unlawfully overserved alcohol before the crash.
Legal Options for Families After a Fatal Queens Car Accident
Under New York law, a wrongful death claim must typically be filed by the personal representative of the victim’s estate. The claim is brought on behalf of surviving family members, including spouses, children, or parents who depended on the victim.
These cases require a thorough investigation that may include:
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Toxicology testing and impairment evidence
- Vehicle crash data and speed analysis
- Review of roadway design and safety features
Because crucial evidence can disappear quickly, families are often advised to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible after a fatal crash.
Experienced Representation for Queens Car Accident Victims
Serious crashes involving speeding, drunk driving, or reckless behavior often lead to complex litigation. Families facing the sudden loss of a loved one deserve answers about what happened and whether the tragedy could have been prevented.
The attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf have decades of experience representing victims and families in catastrophic motor vehicle accident cases throughout New York City, including Queens.
Contact our attorneys to review your case and discuss potential legal options during a free consultation at 212-943-1090.