Manhattan, NY (July 20, 2025) – A tragic accident claimed the lives of two people early on Saturday morning in Manhattan’s Chinatown neighborhood. According to the New York Police Department, the fatal crash occurred just after 7:30 a.m. near the Manhattan Bridge, at the intersection of Canal Street and Bowery.
Officials report that the driver of a Chevy Malibu lost control while exiting the Manhattan Bridge and jumped the curb. The vehicle struck a cyclist in his 30s and a woman in her 60s who were near the corner at the time. The car then continued forward and collided with an unoccupied NYPD van parked nearby.
Both the cyclist and the pedestrian were pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel. Their identities have not yet been publicly released, pending family notification.
The area was closed for several hours as the NYPD Collision Investigation Squad worked to document the scene and determine the full circumstances leading up to the crash. The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of both victims during this incredibly difficult time.
Urban Crash Risks Near Bridge Exits in Manhattan
Crashes involving vehicles exiting bridges like the Manhattan Bridge are not uncommon, especially at busy intersections such as Canal Street and Bowery. The area is known for high volumes of mixed traffic, vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and delivery activity, making it one of the most collision-prone corridors in the city.
When a vehicle jumps the curb in a dense urban environment, the consequences are often fatal. In this case, the tragic combination of speed, impact location, and pedestrian presence led to an irreversible loss of life. Victims of such crashes leave behind grieving families, unanswered questions, and communities searching for safety reforms.
New York City has implemented several Vision Zero initiatives aimed at reducing fatalities on roadways through traffic calming measures, redesigned intersections, and stricter enforcement. However, high-risk zones near major bridge exits remain a concern due to sudden lane changes, confusion in navigation, and pedestrian exposure.
If your family has been impacted by a serious or fatal crash, it’s important to seek both emotional support and legal clarity during such a difficult time.
At Local Accident Reports, we are committed to helping families navigate the aftermath of tragic incidents with care and compassion. Whether you need information, resources, or guidance on next steps, contact Local Accident Reports today to begin your path forward with the support you deserve.
