Authorities in New York City are searching for a driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred Wednesday afternoon in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens. According to the New York Police Department, the crash happened shortly after 3 p.m. on March 11 along Jamaica Avenue near Parsons Boulevard.
Police say a 57-year-old woman was crossing Jamaica Avenue from north to south outside of a marked crosswalk when she was struck by a vehicle traveling westbound along the roadway. Investigators reported that the vehicle involved was a 2001 Lincoln LS. After the collision, the driver continued traveling westbound and left the scene without stopping. Authorities say the vehicle was last seen heading in the direction of the Van Wyck Expressway.
Officers from the NYPD’s 103rd Precinct responded to a 911 call reporting that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle in front of the Joseph P. Addabbo Federal Building located at 155-10 Jamaica Avenue. When officers arrived, they located the woman in the roadway and immediately requested medical assistance.
Emergency medical personnel transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for treatment. Despite the efforts of first responders and hospital staff, officials later confirmed that she died from her injuries. On Thursday, authorities identified the victim as Suzanna Schieder, who lived on Douglas Avenue, roughly a dozen blocks from where the incident occurred.
Investigators say cases involving hit-and-run crashes can present unique challenges as officers work to locate the driver and determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
The NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad is now leading the investigation and working to identify the driver involved. Police have not announced any arrests at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities often rely on witness accounts, traffic cameras, and nearby security footage when investigating incidents of this nature. Detectives are continuing to review potential evidence from the area as they attempt to determine who was responsible for the crash.
Officials are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have information about the vehicle involved to contact the NYPD. Public tips can sometimes play a critical role in helping investigators identify drivers who leave the scene of crashes.
As the investigation continues, community members are also being reminded about the importance of roadway safety for both drivers and pedestrians in busy urban areas.
What more can cities do to prevent hit-and-run incidents and improve pedestrian safety on busy streets? Share your thoughts below.
