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Driver having medical episode fatally strikes 72-year-old woman on Bronx bench: police
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Apr 22, 2026
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Ciara Houghton via Getty Images
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Apr 22, 2026
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A 72-year-old grandmother was struck and killed Tuesday afternoon when a driver had a medical episode and crashed into a bench near a Bronx bus stop, police and local officials said.
Ramonita Colon was sitting on the bench at the intersection of Bartow Avenue and Co-op City Boulevard in Co-op City when a Mazda CX5 jumped the curb around 1:30 p.m., the NYPD said.
Colon was pinned under the car and sustained severe physical injuries, according to officials. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said the 55-year-old man driving the Mazda was taken to Jacobi Hospital in stable condition. They said a 38-year-old man who was also sitting on the bench was taken to the same hospital for treatment.
The NYPD did not immediately arrest anyone in connection with the crash. Authorities said Colon lived in Wakefield, about two miles north of where she was killed.
City Councilmember Kevin Riley, who represents Co-op City, Baychester and surrounding neighborhoods, said he was “deeply saddened” by her death.
“This was an unexpected and devastating situation that reminds us how quickly life can change,” he said in a statement.
So far this year, citywide traffic deaths are at about the same level as they were at this point in 2025, NYPD data shows. There were 52 such fatalities as of April 19, compared to 53 by that date last year.
This story is based on preliminary information from police and may be updated.
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co-op city
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Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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