News Summary In a tragic hit-and-run incident in Queens, 44-year-old construction worker Isabel Alvarez was killed while directing traffic on Nassau Expressway. The driver, 25-year-old Daveanand Budhai, fled the scene after colliding with Alvarez and was later arrested. The community is mourning the loss of Alvarez, who was known for her dedication to her work. Officials are calling for improved safety measures for workers in construction zones as investigations continue. Queens Driver Arrested in Hit-and-Run That Killed Construction Worker In Queens, a tragic hit-and-run incident claimed the life of Isabel Alvarez, a 44-year-old construction worker from the Bronx. Alvarez was fatally struck while directing traffic on the Nassau Expressway early Friday morning. The collision occurred around 7:30 a.m. near Exit 1N, in an area designated as a safety zone. First responders pronounced Alvarez dead at the scene. Preliminary reports indicate that she was standing in the safety zone between the exit ramp and the eastbound lanes when a vehicle hit her. Authorities have identified the driver as Daveanand Budhai, a 25-year-old operating a 2018 Infiniti Q50S. Budhai was reportedly driving at a high rate of speed when he collided with Alvarez and subsequently fled the scene. After the incident, Budhai was located shortly thereafter near South Conduit Avenue and 134th Street. He was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he received treatment for minor injuries to his right hand. Budhai has since been charged with multiple offenses, including assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, and menacing. Community in Mourning The death of Alvarez has sent shockwaves through the community, where friends, co-workers, and family members are mourning the loss of a dedicated professional. She had been working in the construction field for approximately 15 years and was known for her selflessness and commitment to her job. Prior to her death, Alvarez was temporarily filling in for a co-worker and had previously expressed concerns about the dangerous driving conditions in the area. As a testament to her dedication, Alvarez was in the process of building a vacation home for her mother in El Salvador, demonstrating her aspiration to support her family through her hard work and dedication. Officials Call for Increased Safety New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez has publicly expressed condolences regarding Alvarez’s death. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety in work zones, highlighting that such incidents should serve as reminders for drivers to remain vigilant and respectful towards construction workers who ensure the safety and functionality of roadways. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, with the NYPD’s Highway District Collision Investigation Squad tasked with determining the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities are urging drivers to adhere to speed limits and be extra cautious in work zones to prevent further tragedies. As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to rally around Alvarez’s family, calling for justice and a renewed focus on safety measures that protect workers like Alvarez, who dedicate themselves to public service under often dangerous conditions. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Oceanside Begins Construction on Pedestrian Crossing Extension 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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