Queens, NY, September 21, 2025
News Summary
A hit-and-run incident in Queens has resulted in the death of Isabel Alvarez, a 44-year-old construction worker. The driver, 25-year-old Daveanand Budhai, fled the scene after striking Alvarez while she directed traffic. Budhai was later apprehended and has been charged with multiple offenses, including leaving the scene and reckless driving. The community mourns Alvarez’s loss and calls for better safety measures in work zones, highlighting the dangers faced by construction workers.
Queens, NY – A tragic hit-and-run occurred on Friday morning, claiming the life of a 44-year-old construction worker, Isabel Alvarez. The incident took place around 7:30 a.m. as Alvarez was directing traffic near the eastbound Nassau Expressway and Exit 1N.
Alvarez was standing in a designated safety zone between the exit ramp and the eastbound lanes when she was struck by a vehicle driven by 25-year-old Daveanand Budhai. Alvarez was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders who arrived shortly after the collision.
Budhai was reported to be driving a 2018 Infiniti Q50S at a high rate of speed when he hit Alvarez. Following the incident, he fled the scene but was located shortly thereafter near South Conduit Avenue and 134th Street. Budhai was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he was treated for minor injuries to his right hand. He has since been charged with several offenses, including assault, leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, and menacing.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez expressed condolences, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced public safety measures in work zones. Alvarez had previously voiced her concerns regarding reckless driving in the area, as she had taken on the temporary role of covering for a co-worker.
The community, along with Alvarez’s family and co-workers, are mourning her loss, recalling her selflessness and devotion to her work. With 15 years of experience in construction, Alvarez was dedicated to providing for her family, including her efforts to build a vacation home for her mother in El Salvador.
The incident continues to be investigated by the NYPD’s Highway District Collision Investigation Squad. Authorities have reiterated the importance of respecting work zones and prioritizing the safety of construction workers. This event serves as a stark reminder to drivers about the risks faced by construction personnel and the need for vigilance while navigating work areas.
Details of the Incident
- Date and Time: Friday, 7:30 a.m.
- Victim: Isabel Alvarez, 44 years old, construction worker from the Bronx
- Location: Eastbound Nassau Expressway, near Exit 1N
- Driver: Daveanand Budhai, 25 years old
- Vehicle: 2018 Infiniti Q50S
- Charges Filed: Assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, menacing
Background Information
Alvarez had dedicated the last 15 years to the construction industry and had taken on extra responsibilities due to her co-worker’s absence. Her tragic death highlights the dangers that construction workers face daily. The ongoing investigation aims to ensure such incidents are reduced in the future through increased awareness and safety measures.
Community Reaction
The loss of Isabel Alvarez has deeply impacted her community, as friends, family, and co-workers remember her dedication to her job and the sacrifices she made for her family. They call for action to improve safety in work zones to prevent further tragedies from occurring.
FAQ Section
What happened in the hit-and-run incident in Queens?
Isabel Alvarez, a construction worker, was struck and killed by a driver while directing traffic. The driver fled the scene but was later apprehended.
Who is the driver involved in this incident?
The driver is Daveanand Budhai, a 25-year-old man charged with multiple offenses, including leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death.
What charges is the driver facing?
Budhai faces charges such as assault, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, aggravated unlicensed operation, and menacing.
What safety measures are being discussed?
Officials are calling for improved public safety measures in work zones to protect construction workers and prevent similar incidents in the future.
How long had Isabel Alvarez worked in construction?
Isabel Alvarez had worked in construction for approximately 15 years prior to her tragic death.
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Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | Friday, 7:30 a.m. |
| Victim | Isabel Alvarez |
| Driver | Daveanand Budhai |
| Location | Nassau Expressway, Exit 1N |
| Charges | Assault, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation, menacing |
| Community Impact | Mourning and calls for improved safety measures in work zones |
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Additional Resources
- ABC7 NY
- Wikipedia: Hit and Run
- QNS
- Google Search: hit and run incidents Queens
- NY Daily News
- Google Scholar: construction worker safety Queens
- QNS
- Encyclopedia Britannica: traffic safety
- Audacy
- Google News: moped hit and run Queens
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
