FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Kristia Winter
718-629-2900 / KWinter@council.nyc.gov

BROOKLYN, NY—New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis released the following statement after a fatal crash earlier this week at East 55th Street and Foster Avenue in the East Flatbush section of Brooklyn. The crash killed 23-year-old Joanna Dixon who just celebrated her birthday on Thursday while her best friend sustained serious injuries. Both women were passengers in a Mazda SUV whose unidentified driver fled the scene of the crash.

STATEMENT BY COUNCIL MEMBER FARAH N. LOUIS

“An evening of celebration turned into a tragedy because of the reckless behavior of two drivers. I want to extend my sincerest sympathies to the Dixon family, pray that her best friend has a full and speedy recovery, and call on the Mazda driver to come forward and face the consequences,” said Council Member Farah N. Louis.

“A split decision to zoom past a stop sign at the intersection of East 55th Street and Foster Avenue changed the lives of those involved forever. Both drivers knew better yet acted irresponsibly and both must be held accountable for their complete disregard for human life.

“Joanna Dixon, who just turned 23, would still be with her family today were it not for the driver’s decision to disobey a traffic sign meant to ensure the safety of all who share the road, including motorists and their passengers. She did not get to walk away unscathed, but this driver did.”

If you witnessed the crash or know any information related to the driver, please call NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis represents the 45th District,which is comprised of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Marine Park, Flatlands, & Kensington in Brooklyn, NY. She is a member of the committees on Civil Service and Labor; Economic Development; Education; Finance; Housing and Buildings; Committee on Youth Services; and Justice System. Council Member Louis is also a proud member of the Women’s Caucus as well as the Black, Latino/a, and Asian Caucus.