Malverne Hit-and-Run Leaves Elderly Woman Critically Injured: Pursuing Justice

A Community Shocked: The Urgent Need for Justice

On January 4, 2026, the village of Malverne, New York, was shaken by a hit-and-run incident that left an 80-year-old woman in critical condition. The incident occurred at the intersection of Franklin and Cornwell Avenues, a location now etched in the community’s memory as the site of a senseless act of violence. According to the Nassau County Police Department, the elderly woman was struck by a black Toyota Camry at approximately 12:18 p.m. The driver fled the scene, leaving the injured woman to fight for her life. This act of callousness has ignited a firestorm of concern and a resolute pursuit of justice within the Malverne community and beyond. Hit-and-run accidents carry severe penalties in New York, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring accountability on its roadways.

Understanding the Legal Ramifications of Hit-and-Run Accidents in New York

New York law mandates that any driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death must stop, exchange information, and provide assistance if needed. Failing to do so constitutes a hit-and-run, a crime with escalating penalties based on the severity of the incident.

Leaving the Scene: Fleeing an accident scene that results in injury is classified as a misdemeanor. If the accident involves serious injuries, the act of fleeing is elevated to a Class E felony. In the event of a fatality, a hit-and-run is classified as a Class D felony.
Penalties: The consequences for hit-and-run convictions can include substantial fines, imprisonment, license suspension, and a criminal record. For accidents resulting in injuries, penalties can range from a year in jail to four years for serious injuries and up to seven years for fatalities.
Civil Liability: In addition to criminal charges, hit-and-run drivers can also face civil lawsuits. Victims can pursue damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.

The Arrest and Charges

Following an investigation, police arrested Matthew Calabrese, 19, of Malverne, in connection with the hit-and-run. He was charged with leaving the scene of an accident with serious physical injury and violating the right-of-way of a person in the crosswalk. Calabrese pleaded not guilty in First District Court in Hempstead and was released with non-monetary conditions.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Hit-and-Run

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it is crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights and well-being:

Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location away from traffic.
Call 911: Report the incident to the police and request medical assistance.
Gather Information: If possible, collect information about the vehicle involved, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you do not feel immediate pain, seek medical evaluation to document any injuries.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, investigate the accident, and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

Pursuing Justice and Compensation

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in New York have several avenues for seeking compensation:

No-Fault Insurance: New York’s no-fault insurance laws provide coverage for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. A no-fault insurance claim must be filed within 30 days of the accident.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If the hit-and-run driver is not identified, victims can seek compensation through their uninsured motorist coverage.
Personal Injury Lawsuit: If the hit-and-run driver is identified, a personal injury lawsuit can be filed to pursue damages for pain and suffering, medical treatment, and other losses.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the legal complexities of a hit-and-run case can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
Identifying all potential sources of compensation
Negotiating with insurance companies
Filing a lawsuit and representing you in court

Advocating for Pedestrian Safety

The Malverne hit-and-run serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face on our roadways. It underscores the need for increased awareness, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and infrastructure improvements to protect pedestrians, especially the elderly.

Community Response and Support

The Malverne community has rallied around the victim and her family, offering support and demanding justice. Residents are urged to come forward with any information that may help identify the hit-and-run driver and bring them to justice.

A Call to Action

The hit-and-run in Malverne is a tragedy that demands action. By understanding the legal ramifications of hit-and-run accidents, taking steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones, and advocating for pedestrian safety, we can work together to prevent future tragedies and ensure that our communities are safe for all.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, it is essential to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your rights and options.

Open-Ended Questions to Spark Engagement

What steps can be taken to improve pedestrian safety in our communities?
How can we raise awareness about the dangers of hit-and-run accidents?
What message should be sent to those who choose to flee the scene of an accident?