Cyclist Killed by Driver Fleeing Police in Queens: Holding the NYPD Accountable

A tragic police chase in Astoria, Queens, on Tuesday night claimed the life of a cyclist when a driver, fleeing from NYPD officers, fatally struck her. The driver, who was attempting to evade arrest for burglary, was speeding along 34th Avenue before hitting the cyclist on 37th Avenue. This marks yet another fatality resulting from the surge in police chases under Mayor Adams’ administration, prompting concerns about the NYPD’s policies regarding high-speed pursuits.

As NYPD chase accident lawyers, we understand the devastating consequences of reckless pursuits in densely populated neighborhoods. In this case, the police pursuit resulted in not only the senseless death of a cyclist but also intense public outcry about the necessity and safety of such actions.

In New York City, where traffic is already chaotic, engaging in high-speed chases in residential areas is a recipe for disaster. The aftermath of this chase, in which the suspect continued to evade police while an innocent cyclist lost her life, raises the question: Was it worth it? As advocates for victims of road violence, we firmly believe that no property crime, such as burglary, should justify endangering lives in this manner.

This tragedy is not isolated. The NYPD has significantly increased the number of high-speed chases in recent years, resulting in countless injuries and deaths. In the past year alone, several cyclists have been seriously injured or killed in police pursuit-related accidents, leaving families to cope with the irreversible consequences.

In the aftermath of this incident, activists and residents alike are demanding change. Chong Bretillon, a local cycling advocate, summed it up best, calling the chase “a recipe for disaster.” Elizabeth Adams of Transportation Alternatives added that the city must act now to ban police chases in writing and in practice to prevent more needless deaths.

The  team of Queens Car Accident Attorneys at Gair, Gair, Conason, Rubinowitz, Bloom, Hershenhorn, Steigman & Mackauf stand ready to hold all responsible parties accountable. We are committed to seeking justice for those injured or killed in accidents caused by negligent police chases. If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar tragedy, contact our experienced NYPD chase accident lawyers at 212-943-1090 for a confidential consultation.