Michael Pena, a former FDNY firefighter, has been indicted on multiple charges, including manslaughter, for a fatal collision that occurred in East Elmhurst in February. Accused of driving under the influence and speeding excessively, Pena crashed into Justin Diaz's car, who had the right of way. The incident highlights critical issues surrounding drunk and reckless driving on public roadways. At the time of the incident, Diaz was en route to work at LaGuardia Airport after spending the night at his parents' home nearby. Pena's alleged actions resulted in significant trauma and eventual death of Diaz, prompting the legal proceedings.
According to the charges and indictment, around 4:14 a.m. on Feb. 26, Pena was driving a silver Mercedes-Benz S63 Coupe eastbound on Northern Boulevard when he ran a steady red light at 83 mph in a 25-mph zone, slamming into the driver's side of a purple BMW operated by Diaz.
Drunk, drugged, and reckless driving are dire threats to everyone on our shared roadways, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said.
Pena is accused of speeding through a red light at 107th Street while drunk and high, traveling three times the speed limit before crashing into a car driven by 23-year-old Justin Diaz, who had the right of way.
Justin Diaz, a resident of Suydam Street in Bushwick, had spent the night at his parents' home just a block and a half from the crash site. He was on his way to work an early morning shift at LaGuardia Airport.
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