Two Pedestrians Killed in Separate NYC Crashes: A Reminder of the City’s Ongoing Traffic Safety Crisis

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we are deeply saddened to learn of two fatal pedestrian crashes that occurred in New York City this past Friday — tragic events that underscore the persistent dangers faced by pedestrians across the five boroughs.

Upper West Side: 57-Year-Old Pedestrian Fatally Struck by Ford Van

Early Friday morning, Patrice Brooks, a 57-year-old resident of the Upper West Side, was struck and killed by a Ford van while crossing the intersection at 86th Street and Broadway. According to the NYPD, Brooks was crossing diagonally at approximately 4:27 a.m. when the eastbound van, operated by a 41-year-old woman who had the green light, struck him.

Emergency services transported Brooks to Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The fatal crash occurred just steps from Brooks’ home. The driver remained on the scene, and as of now, no arrests have been made. The NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Queens: 23-Year-Old Woman Killed by Motorcyclist on Woodhaven Boulevard

In a separate tragedy, Breanna Henderson, a 23-year-old Brooklyn resident, was killed while crossing Woodhaven Boulevard at the intersection with Myrtle Avenue in Queens around 2:20 a.m. Henderson was reportedly crossing the street when she was struck by a 34-year-old man riding a 2007 Yamaha motorcycle in the center lane heading northbound.

Henderson was rushed to Jamaica Hospital by EMS personnel, but despite medical efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The motorcyclist remained at the scene, and police continue to investigate. As with the Upper West Side incident, no arrests have been made to date.

Pedestrian Safety: A Growing Concern Across New York City

While the specific circumstances of each incident are still under review, these heartbreaking deaths highlight the vulnerabilities pedestrians continue to face, even at intersections that should be designed with their safety in mind. Early-morning hours often mean reduced visibility and fewer witnesses, increasing risks for those on foot.

Despite Vision Zero and other safety initiatives, New York City’s streets continue to see avoidable tragedies. Motorists — whether operating cars, vans, or motorcycles — have a legal duty to exercise heightened caution, especially in areas heavily trafficked by pedestrians. Similarly, intersection design, traffic signal timing, and enforcement practices all play crucial roles in preventing such incidents.

Legal Options for Victims’ Families

In fatal pedestrian accidents, families may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against negligent drivers or other responsible parties. Such claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the immeasurable loss of a loved one’s companionship and care. In some cases, even when a driver remains at the scene and is not immediately arrested, civil liability can still be pursued independently of any criminal proceedings.

At Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf, we have represented grieving families throughout New York City for more than 100 years, fighting for justice when negligent drivers and dangerous roadway conditions have led to preventable deaths.

If you lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, we encourage you to contact our experienced NYC pedestrian accident attorneys. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay no legal fees unless we secure compensation for you.