Two Men Killed in Brooklyn Hit-and-Run

A tragic hit-and-run accident occurred near a Brooklyn food pantry, resulting in the deaths of two men walking with shopping carts. The incident happened early in the morning when a speeding BMW ran a red light at Third Avenue and 52nd Street, striking the men and then fleeing the scene.

Surveillance footage shows the victims, aged 80 and 59, crossing in the crosswalk when the vehicle, allegedly against the red light, sped through and hit them. One man was thrown into a lamp post, suffering severe injuries, while the other was left in the street. Both were pronounced dead at the scene by EMS responders.

Surveillance footage of a fatal hit and run — Two men, 80 and 59, were crossing Third Avenue at 52nd Street when they were struck by a BMW.

The victims appeared to be heading from the local food pantry, likely leaving empty-handed, as observed by a nearby worker who only identified himself as Gregory. He noted that the victims left with empty carts, possibly because the pantry was out of food or not yet open.

Dark-colored sedan involved in crash — Police report the vehicle involved was a dark-colored sedan, which fled the scene.

The driver, Juventino Anastacio Florentino, 23, was later arrested at his Staten Island home. He faces multiple charges, including manslaughter, negligent homicide, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. Police noted he has no prior arrests. Florentino did not speak as he was taken into custody and was dressed casually, attempting to avoid eye contact.

Juventino Florentino being taken into custody — Florentino was detained by police near his Staten Island residence.

A witness, Gregory, recounted the scene, describing the severe injuries and expressing concern over the driver’s reckless speed. Community members voiced frustration over the incident, emphasizing the importance of obeying speed limits and safeguarding pedestrians.

Local officials highlighted the ongoing problem of dangerous driving and called for stricter enforcement to prevent such tragedies in the future.