NYPD Recruit Killed in Motorcycle Crash on Queens Parkway
A 21-year-old NYPD recruit died after his motorcycle crashed into a guardrail while entering the Van Wyck Expressway ramp from the Jackie Robinson Parkway in Queens early Wednesday morning.
The accident occurred around 6 a.m. when the off-duty recruit was riding north on the Jackie Robinson Parkway, according to authorities. Emergency medics transported him to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released.
The crash took place at the ramp connecting the parkway to the Van Wyck Expressway, which is part of the Kew Gardens Interchange—a major traffic hub in Queens. The area is known for its sharp curves and challenging driving conditions. Authorities reported the motorcycle was heavily damaged in the incident, confirming it was not a scooter or moped.
This incident marks the second fatal motorcycle crash on the Jackie Robinson Parkway this fall. On September 23, a 44-year-old motorcyclist died after losing control and striking a concrete median. Motorcycle accidents have been increasingly prevalent in this area, with motorcyclists representing 2% of registered vehicles but accounting for 14% of traffic fatalities in New York City.
Wednesday’s fatality is also the second loss of an NYPD recruit in recent months. In September, probationary officer Kamir Loubarria died during training at the College Point Police Academy. The circumstances surrounding the latest incident are under investigation by authorities. Lane closures were reported at the scene as officials began their inquiry.