I lived in New York City for four years, and one of the most equally comforting and frustrating parts of it was being constantly surrounded by people. The dense population is felt in any interaction you have, be it a simple jaunt along the sidewalk, a trip to the department store, or a ride on the subway. People are a constant presence. Although that actually helped me feel safe when walking around the city, the truth is, it leaves more opportunity for something dangerous to happen. This is especially true when there are more than a fair share of erratic drivers weaving through the streets.
On May 15, 2026, Elvin Suarez, 61, reportedly smashed into a parked car, sparking a chain reaction of vehicle collisions, then slammed into pedestrians.
Suarez was allegedly under the influence when he eventually struck three men sitting outside a barbershop, People reported. Two of the men, 46-year-old Jason Negron and 35-year-old Michael Saint-Hilaire, were declared dead, police said, according to WABC, and a third was sent to the hospital with extensive injuries. WABC also noted that bystanders jumped into action and lifted the vehicle off the trapped victims.
“He was just swerving, driving really fast, and then he drove up over the median,” witness Eva Santiago told CBS News. “We saw the car go up in the air and come down and land on everybody.”
Witnesses emphasized that the incident was shockingly fast and completely out of nowhere.
Retired EMT Janice Diaz told the outlet she remembered seeing three bodies on the ground as she administered CPR to a victim who was unconscious and bleeding.
“I am just yelling, ‘Back up, back up! I’m an EMT, I’m trying to help! Someone help me to hold his head and call 911!'” she said.
The incident appeared to be a complete accident. Suarez, however, faces several charges, including manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, and driving while intoxicated, per WABC.
The loved ones of Negron and Saint-Hilaire each set up GoFundMe accounts.
Negron is survived by his wife and two daughters. The fundraising page stated he served as a doorman for the 545 Building for 20 years and was described as serving the residents “with unwavering dedication, kindness, warmth, and a wonderful sense of humor.”
On his fundraising page, Saint-Hilaire was identified as a father of three and lauded as a truly beloved dad, brother, and friend.
“Michael was the kind of person who would always lend a hand or offer a smile to anyone in need,” the description stated. “He touched so many lives with his kindness, generosity, and positive spirit. Losing him so suddenly has been devastating for everyone who cared about him, especially his children, who now face an uncertain future without their dad.”
