by New York City, NY — An 85-year-old man was tragically killed on Monday afternoon after being struck by a van along one of the Upper East Side’s well-traveled corridors, according to the NYPD. The deadly collision unfolded near the intersection of Park Avenue and East 91st Street, an area known for its heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic.
Authorities say the incident occurred at approximately 2:42 p.m., when emergency responders received a 911 call reporting that a pedestrian had been hit. Within minutes, officers and paramedics arrived on scene and discovered the elderly victim critically injured in the roadway.
Preliminary Findings Reveal Involvement of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
A preliminary investigation indicates that the victim was struck by a gray Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, driven by a 67-year-old man, police confirmed. The van was traveling westbound on Park Avenue when the collision occurred. Officials have not yet released details about the moments leading up to the impact or whether speed, visibility, or right-of-way played a role.
The identity of the victim has not been disclosed, pending family notification.
Victim Pronounced Dead at Weill Cornell Medical Center
Following the crash, medics transported the severely injured pedestrian to Weill Cornell Medical Center, a major trauma facility on the Upper East Side. Despite emergency efforts, the man was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The scene remained active for hours as investigators from the NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad worked to analyze evidence, review traffic cameras, and speak with witnesses who may have seen the incident occur.
Driver Remains on Scene; No Arrests Made
Police confirmed that the 67-year-old driver remained at the location following the collision and cooperated with authorities. As of Monday evening, no arrests have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
It is currently unclear whether the driver will face citations or charges once the full findings are reviewed.
A Dangerous Corridor for Pedestrians
The area surrounding Park Avenue and East 91st Street has experienced a number of traffic-related incidents over the years, despite its reputation as a more residential and affluent section of Manhattan. Wide streets, complex traffic patterns, and vehicles turning at high volumes contribute to pedestrian vulnerability.
New York City has continued efforts under its Vision Zero initiative to reduce roadway fatalities, but pedestrian deaths — especially involving seniors — remain a troubling concern. Older adults are statistically more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries when struck by vehicles, due to increased fragility and slower reaction times.
Community Response and Ongoing Safety Questions
Local residents expressed concern following Monday’s tragedy, noting that pedestrian safety remains a pressing issue across the Upper East Side. Some nearby residents report that drivers often accelerate along stretches of Park Avenue where visibility can become limited, particularly near intersections with merging lanes.
As investigators work to determine exactly how the collision occurred, community members are once again calling for enhanced crosswalk protections, better signage, and increased enforcement of speed limits.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline.
Do you believe New York City should increase safety measures at intersections like Park Avenue and East 91st Street? Share your reactions, concerns, and ideas in the comments below.
