Brooklyn Hit-and-Run Hero Fatally Struck While Protecting Woman in East New York

From the Perspective of our Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyers

Another life was lost to reckless driving on the streets of Brooklyn—and this time, it was a man who reportedly died saving someone else.

According to authorities, a 36-year-old pedestrian was fatally struck in a hit-and-run crash Thursday night at the intersection of East New York Avenue and Broadway in East New York. Witnesses say the driver of a silver sedan was speeding down the roadway around 10 p.m., hitting multiple construction barriers before slamming into the man at the intersection and fleeing the scene. Tragically, the victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

One eyewitness shared with News 12 that the victim had been walking alongside a woman and that he pushed her out of the way just moments before the impact. That act of selflessness, while heroic, underscores the senseless tragedy of a death caused by preventable recklessness.

As hit-and-run accident lawyers, we’re heartbroken—but unfortunately not surprised. This intersection has become notorious for dangerous driving. In fact, police responded to yet another hit-and-run at the very same corner just hours later—this time involving a blue SUV and a delivery driver. The driver sped away yet again.

These back-to-back hit-and-runs in a single location aren’t isolated events—they’re symptoms of a deeper problem. Speeding, street racing, reckless turns, and outright disregard for human life have become far too common on our streets. And when drivers flee the scene, they deny victims and their families even the dignity of accountability.

Under New York law, hit-and-run crashes can lead to both criminal and civil consequences. But even if the driver isn’t immediately identified, surviving family members may still be able to pursue compensation through other means, including uninsured motorist coverage or a claim through the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC).

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we have represented families in some of the most serious pedestrian death cases. We understand the investigative steps required to track down hit-and-run drivers and hold all responsible parties accountable—whether that means the driver, a vehicle owner, or even a negligent contractor responsible for unsafe street conditions.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal pedestrian crash, or were injured yourself in a hit-and-run, you need a team of trial lawyers who will fight for you. Call 212-943-1090 for a free, confidential consultation.