Daniel Hyden : NYC Driver in Deadly Crash Faces Charges

LONDON – A man has been arraigned on multiple charges after allegedly causing a tragic incident in Lower East Side, New York on July 4th. Daniel Hyden, a resident of Monmouth Junction, N.J., faces charges of aggravated vehicular homicide, aggravated vehicular assault, manslaughter, assault, and operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Prosecutors revealed that Hyden was driving with a suspended license at the time of the incident.

According to reports, Hyden, 44, drove a Ford F-150 pickup truck into a crowd at Corlears Hook Park just before 9 p.m. Eyewitnesses stated that he ignored a stop sign at the intersection of Water and Cherry Streets, drove onto the sidewalk, crashed through a chain link fence, and collided with the crowd.

The devastating collision resulted in the deaths of three individuals, who have been identified as Lucille Pinkney, 59, her son Herman Pinkney, 38, and Ana Morel, 43. Additionally, eleven people were either killed or injured in the incident. One person remains in critical condition, while seven others are receiving treatment in hospitals. The youngest victim, only 11 years old, was among those affected.

Upon arriving at the scene, police officers found Hyden on the ground next to the driver’s-side door. He was only wearing pants and displayed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes, stumbling, and a strong smell of alcohol on his breath.

Seeking Justice for the Victims

Family members of the victims returned to the scene on Friday, with many overcome with emotion. Diamond Pinkney, a relative of the deceased, expressed his hope for justice, saying, “I hope we get justice for my brother and my mother. Herman, I love you. I’m going to do you proud.” Neighbour Nereida Garcia also shared her sorrow, stating, “We’re all devastated by this. It breaks my heart, and I’m so sad about it.”