Long Island Hit-and-Run That Killed One Brother and Critically Injured The Other Highlights the Severe Consequences of Leaving the Scene

A Long Island man has been arrested in connection with a hit-and-run crash that struck two brothers on the side of a Suffolk County roadway, killing one and leaving the other critically injured. The incident underscores the devastating consequences that follow when a driver leaves the scene of a serious crash and the legal options available to victims’ families under New York law.

According to Suffolk County police, Jonathan Shaver, 51, of Rocky Point, is accused of striking 31-year-old Edgar Meija and his 29-year-old brother, Omar Meija, shortly before 7 p.m. on Thursday near 1180 William Floyd Parkway in Shirley. The brothers were reportedly outside their vehicle changing a flat tire when Shaver’s 2012 Honda Accord struck them. Police say Shaver then fled the scene.

Edgar Meija was pronounced dead at the scene. His brother Omar was transported to Stony Brook University Hospital, where he remained in critical condition as of Saturday morning.

Shaver has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in serious injury. Authorities have not yet indicated whether additional charges will follow.

Hit-and-Run Crashes Carry Serious Criminal and Civil Consequences in New York

Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a felony in New York. These cases are treated with particular seriousness because fleeing drivers deprive victims of immediate aid and often make it more difficult for law enforcement to investigate the crash in its earliest, most critical hours.

However, criminal charges are only one part of the legal picture. From a civil liability standpoint, hit-and-run crashes often involve complex insurance and evidentiary issues that require immediate legal action to preserve claims.

In cases like this, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the deceased brother, as well as a personal injury claim for the critically injured survivor. These civil claims are separate from any criminal prosecution and are designed to hold the responsible party financially accountable for the harm caused.

Why Evidence Preservation Matters in Hit-and-Run Cases

When a crash involves a driver who initially flees the scene, evidence can disappear quickly. Vehicle damage may be repaired, electronic data can be lost, and eyewitness memories can fade. Early investigation is essential.

Key evidence in hit-and-run cases often includes:

Surveillance and traffic camera footage along the roadway
Vehicle damage analysis and accident reconstruction
Event data recorder (black box) information
Phone records and location data
Statements from first responders and witnesses

Prompt legal involvement helps ensure this evidence is identified, preserved, and used to establish fault and damages in a civil case.

Roadside Breakdowns Are Especially Dangerous

This tragedy also highlights the risks faced by drivers and passengers during roadside emergencies. Changing a flat tire on the shoulder of a busy roadway places people in extremely vulnerable positions, particularly during evening hours or in areas with limited visibility.

Drivers are legally required to exercise heightened caution when approaching stopped vehicles on the shoulder. Failing to slow down, move over when possible, or maintain proper control of a vehicle can constitute negligence—or worse, reckless conduct—under New York law.

Personal Injury Claims or Wrongful Death Claims Can Proceed Even While Criminal Cases Are Pending

Families often assume they must wait for a criminal case to conclude before pursuing civil action. That is not the case. Civil investigations can and should begin immediately, especially when injuries are catastrophic or fatal.

Civil claims may seek compensation for:

Medical expenses and future care
Lost income and loss of financial support
Conscious pain and suffering
Loss of parental guidance and services
Funeral and burial expenses

Each case is highly fact-specific, and early legal guidance is critical to protecting the family’s rights.

Speaking With a New York Car Accident Attorney Early Makes a Difference

Hit-and-run crashes involving death or critical injury demand immediate legal attention. Time-sensitive evidence, insurance deadlines, and statutory notice requirements—particularly if public entities or uninsured motorist coverage are involved—can significantly affect a case.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash in New York, or if a family member was killed due to a driver who fled the scene, speaking with an experienced New York car accident lawyer as early as possible can help protect your rights and preserve critical evidence. Call 212-943-1090 or contact us online for a free consultation with a top-rated New York car accident attorney.