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WANTAGH, Nassau County, N.Y., Nov. 7, 2026 — A pedestrian died on Thursday afternoon, November 5, after a car struck him as he crossed Sunrise Highway in Wantagh.
Officials identified the man as 69-year-old Victor Rodriguez of Wantagh. According to Nassau County police, Rodriguez was crossing Sunrise Highway when he was hit by a 2026 BMW X3 driven by a woman who was turning left from Wantagh Avenue onto Sunrise Highway at about 2:48 p.m. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The intersection has been the site of a fatal pedestrian crash before. Police said a 14-year-old girl was struck and killed there in September 2010 while trying to cross Sunrise Highway.
No charges have been announced, and the crash remains under investigation. Officers have not said whether speed or any other factor contributed.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
More on Crashes in Wantagh, NY
This pedestrian crash happened on Sunrise Highway in Wantagh, NY. We cover crashes across Nassau County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Nassau County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does speed make a difference in whether a pedestrian survives being hit? Yes. The faster a vehicle is moving at impact, the less likely a pedestrian is to survive or avoid serious injury, since higher speeds mean greater force and less time for the driver to stop or react.
Where do most pedestrian crashes happen? Many occur at or near intersections, especially where vehicles are turning, since drivers are usually focused on other traffic and may not see someone crossing.
Are pedestrians more likely to be hit at night? Low light and reduced visibility raise the risk, though crashes like this one, which happened in the afternoon, show they can occur any time of day.
What should someone do after being hit by a car as a pedestrian? Call 911 right away, stay as still as possible until medical help arrives, and get checked at a hospital even if injuries seem minor, since some symptoms appear later.
