Intentional Hit-and-Run Injures Multiple Pedestrians; Niagara Falls Police Seek Female Suspect

Niagara Falls — On September 17, 2023, at around 6:45 pm, Niagara Falls Police were called to the intersection of 22nd Street and Pierce Avenue following reports of a hit-and-run incident involving several pedestrians.

According to police, approximately six individuals were involved in a dispute and standing on the sidewalk near the intersection. Amidst the heated altercation, a 31-year-old woman involved in the disagreement entered a white 2011 Chevy Tahoe. She then maneuvered the vehicle into a nearby alley before deliberately driving onto the sidewalk, plowing into the group of pedestrians.

The incident resulted in serious leg injuries for a 16-year-old male and a 52-year-old female. Both victims were rushed to Erie County Medical Center and are reported to be in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries. Additionally, two other individuals reported minor injuries but did not seek immediate medical attention.

The driver, a 31-year-old woman, has been identified by authorities but remains at large. Police have not located the vehicle involved in the incident.

Police are urging anyone with information regarding the case to contact the Niagara Falls Police Department Traffic Office at (716) 286-4563, or the Complaint number at (716) 286-4711. The case is currently under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Division, which you can reach at (716) 286-4553.

Charges against the suspect are pending.

Officials are treating this case with the utmost urgency, given the deliberate nature of the driver’s actions.

The Reporter speculates that DA may charge the woman with::

1. Attempted Murder or Attempted Manslaughter: If the driver intentionally sought to cause death or serious injury.
2. Assault: Charges of assault, first- or second-degree, could be applicable. In New York, Assault in the First Degree occurs when one intends to cause serious physical injury using a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
3. Reckless Endangerment: If the driver’s actions recklessly placed others in danger of death or serious injury.
4. Leaving the Scene of an Accident: The driver fled. She could be charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries.
5. Vehicular Assault: She used a vehicle to inflict injury.
6. Criminal Possession of a Weapon: New York State law can sometimes classify a car as a dangerous instrument or weapon.
7. Obstruction of Justice: This charge might apply if the driver took steps to hide from authorities.