New York City, NY (September 14, 2026) – A woman died after a hit-and-run driver struck her in the Inwood section of Manhattan on Sunday night, September 13, according to authorities. The crash happened near Dyckman Street and Harlem River Drive.
The 911 call came in just before 7:30 p.m., and it reported that a pedestrian had been hit by a vehicle. Responding officers found the woman injured at the scene.
She was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition and later died there, according to police. Her name had not been released as of the time of this report.
There isn't any description of the vehicle or the driver involved, yet; however, this case remains under investigation, and anyone with information is asked to contact the authorities.
Our sympathies are with the family of the person who lost their life.
A Common Misconception About Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crashes
Many people assume drivers who flee the scene of a pedestrian crash are rare exceptions, a small fraction of an already uncommon crime. The data tells a different story.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 24 percent of pedestrians killed in traffic crashes were struck by hit-and-run drivers in 2023. That means roughly one in four pedestrian deaths involved a driver who did not stop.
The pattern shows up across cities of all sizes, not just in a handful of high-traffic corridors. It points to a gap between how often drivers flee and how often the public assumes they do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
Call 911 immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Try to note the vehicle's direction, color, or any part of the plate. Seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, since some injuries do not show symptoms right away.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
In New York, pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks once they have entered the roadway. Drivers are required to yield, but pedestrians should still make eye contact with drivers before crossing when possible.
How can drivers reduce the risk of hitting a pedestrian?
Slowing down near intersections, scanning both directions before turning, and avoiding distractions behind the wheel all help drivers spot pedestrians sooner, especially at night or in poor visibility.
What injuries are most common in pedestrian accidents?
Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer broken bones, head injuries, and internal injuries. The severity typically depends on vehicle speed and the point of impact.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Crash in New York City, NY
Witnesses to a hit-and-run should call 911 right away and give dispatchers any details they can, including vehicle color, direction of travel, and partial plate numbers if visible. Staying at the scene to speak with responding officers helps investigators build an accurate account.
Anyone who was nearby or has surveillance or dashcam footage is encouraged to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers. Even small details can help identify a driver who left the scene.
Family members of a victim should know that hospitals and the medical examiner's office can provide guidance on next steps, and police departments typically release updates as an investigation develops.
