According to an Astoria Post report, officers from the NYPD responded to an early morning 911 call regarding an incident at the intersection of Astoria Boulevard and Steinway Street in Astoria. An initial investigation revealed that a pedestrian had been struck by a man driving a BMW heading east on Astoria Boulevard South at approximately 4 a.m. The victim, discovered unconscious in the roadway by law enforcement and emergency responders, was transported to Elmhurst Hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead.
Witnesses at the scene recounted the chilling moments following the crash. One local resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, mentioned hearing a loud crash and seeing a figure fleeing the scene. "It happened so fast, but the sound was unmistakable. And then I saw someone just running away. It's so heart-wrenching to think they didn't even stop to check on the person they hit."
Preliminary findings by the NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad have provided a clearer picture of the incident. An unidentified male, driving a BMW and traveling eastbound on Astoria Boulevard South, is believed to have struck the victim. Post-incident, the driver made a hasty retreat, seen running southbound on Steinway Street, abandoning the vehicle.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, the identity of the victim remains withheld. Authorities ensure family members receive this grievous news with the necessary support and care.
The NYPD has made a public plea for anyone with information about the incident or the driver's whereabouts to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and the community hopes for swift justice.
Astoria residents are reminded to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities or information that could aid the investigation.