Drug impaired driver charged in death of Nassau crossing guard struck on sidewalk
Mineola, NY — A Queens man has been indicted after prosecutors say he drove under the influence of multiple drugs and struck a 70-year-old crossing guard on a sidewalk, leading to the man’s death days later.
Joshua Alvarado, 30, was arraigned on charges including second-degree manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, assault, and multiple counts related to driving while impaired by drugs. He pleaded not guilty and was remanded, with his next court appearance scheduled for May 5.
According to the indictment, the crash occurred on February 26 at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Sunrise Highway in Merrick. Alvarado was driving a commercial pickup truck to a service call when he allegedly fell asleep at a red light at Merrick Avenue.
Witnesses reported that after the light turned green, nearby drivers honked their horns, waking him. Prosecutors say he then drove diagonally through the intersection, mounted the curb, and struck John Miro, who was standing on the sidewalk.
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Miro, a Nassau County Police crossing guard, had been clearing snow and assisting children moments before the collision. He suffered severe injuries, including head trauma, a broken hip, and multiple broken ribs. He was taken to Nassau University Medical Center, where he later died on March 6.
Investigators said toxicology reports showed Alvarado was impaired by Xanax, Clonazepam, and a synthetic substance described as street Xanax at the time of the crash.
If convicted, Alvarado faces a potential sentence of up to 7 to 15 years in prison.
The case is being prosecuted by the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office. Authorities emphasized that the charges are accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Key Points
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- Queens man indicted in crash that killed 70 year old crossing guard
- Prosecutors say driver was impaired by multiple drugs at the time
- Victim died days after being struck on sidewalk in Merrick
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