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Queens Driver Charged With Murder in SUV Attack That Killed 16-Year-Old

Prosecutors say he deliberately mounted the curb after sexually harassing the teen’s group.

Overview

  • Edwin Cruz Gomez, 38, of Uniondale, was arrested at the scene and charged with murder, attempted murder, vehicular manslaughter, DWI, leaving the scene, and related counts.
  • Queens prosecutors say the act was intentional and cite surveillance video, witness accounts, and a measured blood-alcohol level of .137, above the legal limit.
  • Victim Jhoanny Gomez-Alvarez, 16, was pronounced dead at Roosevelt Avenue and Benham Street; her 32-year-old mother was hospitalized in stable condition and her stepfather was also injured.
  • Authorities allege Cruz Gomez made crude sexual solicitations and offered money to the teen and her mother, prompting a confrontation before he drove onto the sidewalk.
  • After striking the group, the driver reversed, went the wrong way down Benham Street, hit a parked vehicle, fled on foot, and was taken into custody; he faces up to 25 years to life if convicted and is due back in court Friday.