71-Year-Old Tonci Budija Killed in Queens After Being Struck by Two Cars

Accident – Death – Obituary News : 71-Year-Old Woman Fatally Struck by Two Cars in Queens Accident

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) – Tragedy struck in Queens on Saturday evening when a 71-year-old woman lost her life and a 73-year-old man was left critically injured after being struck by two cars. The incident occurred on Woodhaven Boulevard around 8:30 p.m., according to officials.

Reports indicate that the two pedestrians were attempting to cross the busy street when a 2017 BMW 430, traveling in the right lane, hit them with its passenger side mirror while attempting to swerve out of the way. Unfortunately, this initial impact was followed by a second collision with a 2014 Toyota Camry, which was also traveling in the right lane.

The force of the impact caused the woman, identified as Tonci Budija, to be thrown to the pavement, resulting in severe head and body trauma. She was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where she was sadly pronounced dead. The 73-year-old man also suffered head trauma and was taken to New York Presbyterian Queens Hospital in critical condition.

Both drivers involved in the incident remained at the scene and were found to be uninjured, according to authorities. The investigation into the accident is ongoing, and it is unclear at this time if any charges will be filed.

Fatal pedestrian accidents like this one serve as a tragic reminder of the importance of road safety. Woodhaven Boulevard is a busy thoroughfare, and pedestrians must exercise caution when crossing. Drivers, too, bear the responsibility of being attentive and aware of their surroundings to avoid such devastating accidents.

This incident highlights the need for enhanced pedestrian safety measures in Queens and across New York City. Officials and community leaders must work together to identify areas with high pedestrian traffic and implement strategies to prevent accidents. These measures can include improved crosswalks, better signage, increased police presence, and public awareness campaigns.

The loss of a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a devastating experience for any family. It is crucial for authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident and hold any responsible parties accountable. Additionally, support services should be made available to the family of the deceased and the injured man during this difficult time.

As the investigation continues, it is important for all road users to remain vigilant and prioritize safety. Pedestrians should always use designated crosswalks and wait for the signal to cross. Drivers must adhere to speed limits, avoid distractions, and yield to pedestrians in order to prevent future tragedies like this one.

This article was written by Erin Pflaumer, a digital content producer from Long Island who has been covering local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. To read more of Erin’s work, click here..