Brooklyn, NY (January 22, 2026) – A 27-year-old worker was severely injured in a tragic workplace accident at a Brooklyn car wash on Wednesday morning after a co-worker unintentionally struck him with a customer’s vehicle, according to the NYPD.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:54 a.m. at Golden Touch Car Wash, located on Fourth Ave near First St. in the Park Slope neighborhood. Authorities say the victim was wiping down a Toyota Sienna in the car wash bay when another employee, identified as a 37-year-old man, unexpectedly accelerated the vehicle while seated in the driver’s seat.
According to police and eyewitnesses, the SUV suddenly lurched forward, pinning the victim and crashing into a nearby light pole. The impact did not stop there; the vehicle continued forward, exiting the car wash lot and T-boning a northbound Toyota Prius on Fourth Ave.
A nearby construction worker who witnessed the scene described the moment in grim detail. “He struck one of his co-workers,” the man said. “He must’ve slipped off the brake pedal and hit the gas. The other guy was bending down to get the Armor All to do another car. He hit him, and then he hit the pole. He dragged him to the pole.”
The victim suffered a traumatic head injury upon being thrown to the pavement. First responders arrived quickly and provided immediate medical aid before rushing him to a local hospital. Witnesses reported that the injured man appeared unconscious at the scene and was in critical condition.
As of Thursday morning, the victim remains hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. Investigators are working to determine whether mechanical failure, driver error, or other factors contributed to the sudden acceleration.
Our hearts go out to the injured worker and his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We hope for strength and healing as he fights to recover from this devastating accident.
