NYPD Seeks Suspect in April Fatal Motorcycle Collision on Van Wyck Expressway
NEW YORK — Authorities are searching for a suspect involved in a fatal motorcycle accident on the Van Wyck Expressway that resulted in the death of a Glendale man in April.
According to the NYPD, the incident occurred on April 14 at approximately 7:15 p.m. Jonathan Santiago, 39, was traveling northbound on a 2018 Yamaha R1 near Exit 12A for College Point Boulevard when he struck a stationary 2021 Yamaha motorcycle operated by the suspect.
Following the initial collision, Santiago collided with a 2024 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, driven by a 47-year-old man. Santiago was ejected from his motorcycle and suffered severe head trauma. Emergency Medical Services transported him to New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The driver of the Mercedes van remained at the scene, while the other motorcyclist fled. The NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad is actively investigating the crash.
The suspect is described as having a medium complexion with a dark beard and mustache, wearing black sunglasses and a black half-helmet. A reward of up to $3,500 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.
Anyone with information should contact the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-577-TIPS (8477) or visit crimestoppers.nypdonline.org.
Through July 12, the 107th Precinct has reported two traffic fatalities this year, in contrast to none at the same point last year.