News Summary
A tragic hit-and-run incident in Queens resulted in the death of a 44-year-old construction worker, Isabel Alvarez. The driver, Daveanand Budhai, fled the scene but was apprehended shortly afterward. Alvarez was directing traffic when she was struck, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety in work zones. Authorities are investigating the incident and are calling for heightened awareness among drivers to protect construction workers.
Queens, New York — Driver Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run Involving Construction Worker
A 44-year-old construction worker was fatally struck in a hit-and-run incident in Queens early Friday morning. The driver responsible for the crash was promptly located and arrested shortly after the incident, authorities confirmed.
Details of the Incident
The collision occurred around 7:30 a.m. near the eastbound Nassau Expressway and Exit 1N. The victim, Isabel Alvarez, was directing traffic at the scene and was standing safely within a designated zone between the exit ramp and the eastbound lanes of the expressway when she was hit.
First responders arrived quickly and pronounced Alvarez dead at the scene. She was a seasoned construction worker with approximately 15 years of experience and was in the process of building a vacation home for her mother in El Salvador. Alvarez was also known for her dedication and had previously expressed concerns about reckless driving in the area.
Driver’s Actions and Arrest
The driver involved in the incident, 25-year-old Daveanand Budhai, was operating a 2018 Infiniti Q50S at a high rate of speed when he struck Alvarez. After the collision, Budhai fled the scene but was located shortly afterward near South Conduit Avenue and 134th Street.
Following his apprehension, Budhai was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries, specifically to his right hand. He was found to be in stable condition at the time of transfer and faces multiple charges, including assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, and menacing.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
The NYPD’s Highway District Collision Investigation Squad is leading the investigation into the incident, focusing on reconstructing the events and gathering evidence. The case remains active, and further details about the circumstances are expected as the investigation continues.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of respecting work zones and ensuring safety for construction workers. State officials and community members are calling for increased awareness and caution among drivers, especially in areas where workers are present.
Background and Impact
Alvarez’s colleagues and family are mourning her loss, highlighting her commitment to her profession and her willingness to step in temporarily for a coworker. She was well-regarded within her community as a dedicated worker who contributed significantly to local infrastructure projects.
Her death brings attention to the dangers faced by construction crews nationwide, especially from reckless or inattentive drivers. Prior to the incident, Alvarez had voiced concerns about the hazards posed by speeding vehicles near work zones, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and public safety measures.
Official Statements and Safety Reminders
Marie Therese Dominguez, the New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner, issued a statement expressing condolences to Alvarez’s family and emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in work zones. She reiterated the state’s commitment to protecting workers and pedestrians through increased enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
This tragic event highlights the ongoing risk to construction workers from negligent drivers and serves as a reminder to all motorists to prioritize safety, follow posted speed limits, and show caution in work zones.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- ABC7 NY
- Wikipedia: Hit and Run
- QNS
- Google Search: hit and run incidents Queens
- NY Daily News
- Google Scholar: construction worker safety Queens
- QNS
- Encyclopedia Britannica: traffic safety
- Audacy
- Google News: moped hit and run Queens
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