QUEENS, NY – Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has announced the arraignment of Jose Barcia, 52, from Flushing, Queens, on multiple charges following a fatal collision in East Elmhurst. The incident, which resulted in the death of an 8-year-old boy and injuries to his 10-year-old brother, occurred as the children and their mother were crossing the street.
Barcia is facing charges including criminally negligent homicide and failing to yield to pedestrians, among others. District Attorney Katz emphasized the responsibility that comes with driving and the devastating impact of the driver’s disregard for traffic rules. She expressed deep condolences to the family of the victims.
The collision took place on March 13, when Barcia, driving a gray 2005 Nissan Titan, made a left turn at high speed without yielding to oncoming traffic, striking the children in a marked crosswalk. The 8-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, while his brother received medical treatment for his injuries.
Justice Anthony Battisti has scheduled Barcia to return to court on June 24. Barcia could face up to four years in prison if convicted. The investigation by the NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad and the Queens District Attorney’s Vehicular Homicide Unit is ongoing.