BROOKLYN, NY – The New York Police Department is on the hunt for two drivers who are alleged to have hit a 79-year-old woman and fled the scene, leaving her fatally injured on a Brooklyn street. The incident occurred on Thursday evening as Yvonne Sandiford was crossing the intersection of Fulton Street and Herkimer Street in Crown Heights.
Reports indicate that the first vehicle involved was a gray Nissan Rogue. After hitting Sandiford, the driver sped away, leaving her lying injured on the road. Shortly after, a second vehicle, a white Toyota Sienna, ran over the already injured elderly woman and also fled the scene.
Emergency services arrived promptly, but Sandiford was pronounced dead at the scene. The shocking incident has left the community in disbelief and mourning. Many have voiced their concerns about the safety of pedestrians in New York City, particularly in light of the drivers’ apparent disregard for the elderly victim.
The incident has also stirred up emotions among the residents. One resident expressed their sorrow, saying, “We have lost love. I am hurt, and it’s not my mother or grandmother, but I am hurt. I pray they find them.”
Patrick Sandiford, the deceased’s son, shared his grief with the New York Daily News, stating that he felt lifeless after the tragic loss of his mother. He also expressed his disbelief and anguish that two individuals could have potentially saved his mother’s life had they stopped instead of fleeing the scene.
Yvonne Sandiford, who migrated from Barbados, was described as a humble and jovial person. She had retired ten years ago after serving at the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Her son shared that she enjoyed watching soap operas and game shows with her family.
The NYPD is urging anyone with information about the identity of the two drivers to get in touch with their 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS.