Long Island, Manhattan Accident Attorney Blog

Hempstead Car Accident Claims the Life of an Elderly Pedestrian

A Hempstead car accident involving an unlicensed teenage driver claims the life of an elderly pedestrian as she is struck while mowing her lawn in front of her Long Island home. The incident took place at approximately 9:45 AM on Tuesday morning, April 20, 2010, on Cathedral Avenue.

According to police, the driver, Kalya Gerdes, 18, of Freeport, was speeding along Cathedral Avenue in a van when she jumped a curb and struck the pedestrian and then her house. The victim, who was killed instantly, has been identified as Rebecca Twine Wright, 69, of Hempstead.

Police have indicated that Gerdes was high on OxyContin when the pedestrian accident occurred. She has been charged with DWI, vehicular manslaughter and driving without a New York driver’s license.

On her way to her arraignment, Gerdes lashed out to reporters. “Leave me alone,” she cried. “I’m sorry. It was a mistake. I didn’t mean to do it. The car went out of control and I was pressing the brake and it wouldn’t go. I’m sorry.”

The fatal Hempstead pedestrian accident is still under investigation by local authorities. Gerdes is being held on $200,000 bail.

This is an unfortunate accident and our thoughts and condolences go out to Ms. Wright’s family and friends during this difficult time.