Investigation Underway After Van Involved in Fatal Midtown Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident Near New York Public Library
MIDTOWN, MANHATTAN (September 26, 2025) – A pedestrian has tragically died in a Midtown, Manhattan hit-and-run car accident near the intersection of 40th Street and 5th Avenue.
New York City officials are saying that the collision took place around 2:20 p.m. on Wednesday. A van reversed and pinned a 55-year-old man and a 50-year-old woman against a box truck.
The force of the impact caused the woman to be decapitated. The man was also seriously injured in the collision.
He was later transported to the hospital to receive treatment. Police later apprehended the driver of the van involved in the crash.
A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability for New York City Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the IIHS, “A total of 7,314 pedestrian deaths occurred in 2023. Pedestrian fatalities account for 18% of all crash fatalities. Pedestrian deaths in 2023 have increased 78% since reaching their lowest point in 2009.” Many different factors could contribute to a pedestrian crash.
- Drivers are much more likely to hit pedestrians if they are speeding.
- Many pedestrian fatalities involve an intoxicated driver.
- Pedestrian collisions are much more likely in the early morning and late evening when visibility is reduced.
Drivers must observe all traffic regulations and continuously scan the road ahead of them for pedestrians. Pursuant to New York Vehicle Code 1146, all drivers must exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians, bicyclists, and domestic animals in the roadway. If a driver fails to slow down to avoid hitting a pedestrian, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that certain actions are taken after any pedestrian collision.
- Surveillance footage of the accident should be sought.
- The police should be called to the scene as soon as possible.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- An experienced pedestrian accident attorney should be contacted.
It can be difficult to know where to begin after any pedestrian accident. This is especially true when a family loses a loved one. To make matters worse, drivers will often do everything in their power to deny liability for what happened. The family of any person who died in a pedestrian collision may be able to seek some measure of accountability through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating New York City Pedestrian Accidents
We at GLK Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman who died in this pedestrian accident. It is our sincere hope that the male victim will be able to make a full recovery. This was a preventable tragedy that should not have taken place. Any person who may have more information should reach out to the NYPD.
Do you need more information about a Midtown hit-and-run collision? Our team of pedestrian accident investigators is here to help in any way that we can. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held accountable for their misconduct. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of assistance, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
