QUEENS, NY – District Attorney Melinda Katz today announced that Yaser Ibrahim, 18, has been arraigned on charges of leaving the scene of a fatal incident, driving without a license, speeding, and other traffic violations after a crash on April 10 that killed 14-year-old Jaydan McLaurin in Astoria. McLaurin was riding an electric Citi Bike through the intersection of 21st Street and 21st Avenue when he was struck by a 2022 BMW X7 driven by Ibrahim.
The vehicle was later located several blocks away from the collision scene with significant front-end damage to the bumper and windshield. Ibrahim admitted to driving at speeds of 45 to 50 mph in a 25 mph zone and told police he stopped after the collision, saw the debris, got nervous, and left the scene. Ibrahim could not produce a valid driver’s license or insurance and had only a learner’s permit. The car’s windows were also heavily tinted.
DA Katz said, “The rules of the road like speed limits and licensing requirements exist to prevent tragedies like this one. We will seek justice for the young victim and his loved ones.”
Ibrahim faces up to seven years in prison if convicted and is due back in court on June 6.
