News Summary
In a tragic hit-and-run incident in Queens, a construction worker, Isabel Alvarez, was killed while directing traffic. The driver, Daveanand Budhai, fled the scene but was later apprehended. Community members mourn Alvarez’s death, emphasizing the ongoing safety concerns for construction workers. The investigation continues as officials call for greater awareness and measures to protect workers in construction zones.
Queens, New York – Driver Arrested in Hit-and-Run That Killed Construction Worker
In a tragic incident in Queens, 44-year-old Isabel Alvarez, a construction worker from the Bronx, was struck and killed in a hit-and-run while directing traffic on Friday morning. The collision occurred around 7:30 a.m. near the eastbound Nassau Expressway and Exit 1N, leading to widespread mourning within the community.
Alvarez was positioned in a safety zone between the exit ramp and the eastbound lanes when she was hit by a vehicle driven by 25-year-old Daveanand Budhai, who was driving a 2018 Infiniti Q50S at a high rate of speed. Emergency responders pronounced Alvarez dead at the scene, a devastating loss felt by colleagues and loved ones.
After fleeing the scene, Budhai was apprehended shortly thereafter by law enforcement near South Conduit Avenue and 134th Street. Although he had sustained minor injuries to his right hand, he was treated at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and has since been released. Budhai is facing multiple charges, including assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, and menacing.
Community Reaction and Safety Concerns
The New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner, Marie Therese Dominguez, expressed condolences to Alvarez’s family and emphasized the critical need for public safety in work zones. This incident underlines urgent concerns that have been raised about the dangers construction workers face while on the job. Alvarez herself had previously shared worries regarding reckless drivers in the area, highlighting a chronic issue affecting workers in these settings.
Alvarez was temporarily filling in for a co-worker when the tragic event occurred. She had dedicated approximately 15 years to her career in construction and was in the midst of building a vacation home for her mother in El Salvador. The loss of Alvarez has left a considerable void, with community members recalling her as selfless and devoted to her work.
Investigation and Broader Context
The NYPD’s Highway District Collision Investigation Squad is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident to ensure thorough accountability and to gather more details about the events that transpired on that fatal morning. This incident serves as a sobering reminder for drivers to respect work zones and prioritize the safety of construction workers.
As the community continues to mourn the loss of Isabel Alvarez, the need for heightened attention to pedestrian and worker safety in construction zones has never been more apparent. Alvarez’s death, while tragic, has highlighted the ongoing discussions required to improve safety measures and protect those who work diligently to improve urban infrastructure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Oceanside Transit Center Pedestrian Crossing Extension Project
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
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
