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Judge Convicts Daniel Hyden of Four Counts of Murder in July 4 Park Crash

A bench trial detailing intoxication, high-speed driving, attempted escape precedes a Dec. 3 sentencing.

Overview

  • A New York State Supreme Court judge found Hyden guilty on all counts, including four counts of second-degree murder, aggravated vehicular homicide, and multiple assaults, with sentencing set for Dec. 3.
  • The crash in Corlears Hook Park killed Lucille Pinkney, Herman Pinkney, Ana Morel, and Emily Ruiz and left seven others injured.
  • Trial evidence showed he accelerated through a stop sign at 39 mph, drove up to 54 mph over a sidewalk, kept the gas fully depressed, and braked only half a second before impact.
  • After the truck stopped with victims trapped beneath, he tried to reverse and flee until witnesses intervened and removed the ignition key.
  • Prosecutors also described the lead-up to the crash, including being refused entry to a Pier 36 party boat for apparent intoxication and a subsequent altercation.