New York man charged with murder after deliberately hitting teen with car

In the early hours of September 14, 2025, in Queens, New York, a tragic incident unfolded when Edwin Cruz Gomez, a 38-year-old man, intentionally drove his Chevrolet Suburban into a group of four people, including a 16-year-old girl. Earlier that night, Gomez had propositioned the girl and her mother for sexual acts outside the Prima Donna Restaurant. Following a verbal altercation with the victim's stepfather, he resorted to the violent act of hitting them with his vehicle. The impact tragically resulted in the death of Jhoanny Alvarez, the teen girl, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother sustained injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Witnesses described the confrontation escalating rapidly, prompting bystanders to intervene before the suspect fled the scene on foot. After abandoning his vehicle, Gomez wandered away but soon approached police officers, claiming he had been assaulted. Officers followed him back to the collision site, where he was arrested. Blood tests later revealed Gomez's blood alcohol content was 0.137%, far exceeding the legal limit. In court, Gomez faced multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, assault, and vehicular manslaughter, demonstrating the gravity of his actions. His judicial proceedings continue to highlight the severe consequences of drunk driving and violence against women, with the Queens District Attorney's Office pledging to seek justice for the victims. His next court appearance is scheduled, and if convicted, he faces a potential sentence of 25 years to life in prison.