Tragic Night in Brooklyn
61-year-old William Rosario was fatally hit by an SUV while crossing the New Lots Avenue in Brooklyn, close to Mother Gaston Blvd, as per local law enforcement and witnesses. The accident occurred shortly after 10 p.m. on June 1. Sources suggest Rosario may have been in the middle of the road imploring passersby for money when tragedy struck.
Victim of Hard Times
William’s brother, Pedro Rosario, spoke about the tough life his sibling led. William had been confined to a wheelchair following a nasty fall and subsequent leg surgery in January 2024. Pedro expressed his grief saying, “I was the one looking after my brother. He had no one else.” He also pointed out the hardships William faced didn’t just end at physical disability. He had his share of encounters with the law, and often fell in with the wrong crowd.
The Fateful Encounter
According to the account of some witnesses, on that fateful night, William Rosario ventured too close to the moving traffic, attempting to beg for money. He was subsequently hit by the eastbound SUV. The seriously injured man was immediately taken to Brookdale Hospital – but was, unfortunately, pronounced dead on arrival.
The Driver’s Arrest
The driver involved in the incident, identified as 67-year-old Anthony John, was arrested eleven days later. He was charged with failing to yield to a pedestrian, driving without a license and not exercising due care. Despite the crash, John reportedly stayed at the scene after the incident, seeming distressed.
Neighborhood’s Perception of William
Local residents often saw Rosario on the street, rolling up to motorists, asking for small change. Despite the circumstances of his panhandling, he had found a place in the hearts of his neighbors, who mourned his tragic death.
One of such neighbors, Ricardo said, “Willie was sick, he had lost a lot of weight. I told him not to be in the streets”. Ricardo shared fond memories of their time together – sharing meals, watching movies, and laughing together, intending to go on a vacation before the unfortunate incident.
Sympathy for the Driver
Some locals also had sympathy for the driver involved in the accident. Alvin James, a local, asserted, “He had the right of way”, referring to John. James outlined his view that Rosario went too adjust into the street, hence the incident. Nonetheless, some inconsistencies like John’s lack of a driver’s license, were mentioned.
Cautionary Tale
A fellow neighbor, Romeo Wilson, used the incident as a warning for Ricardo. Wilson often encouraged Rosario not to risk his life on the busy roads, even handing him some cash to keep him off the roads. However, Wilson believes Rosario was not one to keep away from the streets.
The tragic end of William Rosario serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of begging in traffic, an issue that warrants attention in many cities. As the neighborhood mourns the loss of a familiar face and law enforcement works to pass a judgement on the incident, this tragic event paints a raw picture of issues faced by underprivileged members of our society.