Driver Who Fatally Struck Astoria Girl Was Not Properly Licensed: DOT

ASTORIA, QUEENS — The driver who fatally struck a 7-year-old girl from Astoria was not properly licensed during the crash in February, the city's Transportation department confirmed.

The driver of the 2021 Ford Explorer had a learner's permit and was driving without a licensed adult in the vehicle when she fatally struck Dolma Naadhun on the afternoon of Feb. 17, the Transportation department said.

The driver ran past a stop sign and struck the seven-year-old crossing the intersection of Newton Rd. and 45 St. about 5 p.m., police said.

The Transportation department also confirmed that the driver had a legal amount of alcohol in their system during the incident.

The killing of the 7-year-old spurred local lawmakers and residents to rally for safety improvements at the intersection, with many demanding a traffic light be installed.

In response, DOT will install a traffic signal in May at the intersection where Dolma was killed.

Residents flocked to the NYPD's 114th Precinct meeting last week to demand officers prioritize pedestrian safety amid several tragic incidents in the last year.

Lawmakers including Council Member Julie Won, Council Member Tiffany Cabán, and Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers sent a letter to DOT in February demanding a traffic light be placed at the intersection. Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris also advocated for the safety enhancements.

Dolma’s 11-year-old brother started a petition in March making the same request.

Last month, Astoria residents convened at a candlelight vigil organized by the 7-year-old's school P.S. 85Q. to honor Dolma.