Niagara Falls Woman Struck in Hit and Run Accident

Niagara Falls Woman Struck in Hit-and-Run Accident

Niagara Falls, NY – A peaceful evening turned into a harrowing ordeal for a Niagara Falls woman who was struck in a hit-and-run accident on Friday night. The incident has sparked concern across the community, as residents rally for justice and safer streets.

Incident Details

According to the Niagara Falls Police Department, the accident occurred around 8:45 p.m. near the intersection of Pine Avenue and 19th Street, a well-traveled corridor known for both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Witnesses reported hearing a sudden screech of tires followed by a loud thud. When they turned to look, they saw a woman lying on the pavement and a dark-colored SUV speeding away from the scene.

The victim, identified as 34-year-old Melissa Grant, a lifelong resident of Niagara Falls, was rushed to Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. She suffered multiple fractures, bruises, and a concussion. As of Monday morning, hospital officials report that she remains in stable condition, with doctors optimistic about her recovery.

Witness Accounts

Several bystanders at the scene said the vehicle, possibly a black Jeep Cherokee or similar model, was heading westbound on Pine Avenue when it struck Grant as she was crossing the street. Despite the clearly marked pedestrian crossing and functioning streetlights, the driver failed to slow down or stop after impact.

“I saw her crossing with the light. She had the right of way,” said Carmen Ruiz, who owns a nearby corner store and witnessed the aftermath. “The driver didn’t even tap the brakes. Just hit her and kept going. It was horrible.”

Other witnesses attempted to provide police with a partial license plate and descriptions of the vehicle, although the dim lighting and quick departure made identification challenging.

Ongoing Investigation

The Niagara Falls Police Department has launched a full investigation and is reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras. Detectives are urging anyone who may have been in the area or who has dashcam footage to come forward.

“We’re doing everything we can to identify the driver,” said Detective Lisa Monroe. “Hit-and-run accidents are particularly disturbing because they show a complete disregard for human life. We’re asking the community to help us bring this individual to justice.”

So far, no arrests have been made, but police are following up on multiple leads.

Community Reaction

The incident has stirred strong emotions in the tight-knit Niagara Falls community. Neighbors have begun organizing online vigils and support groups for Melissa Grant and her family. Many residents have also expressed frustration over what they perceive as a growing problem with reckless driving in the area.

“It’s not the first time something like this has happened around here,” said Michael Carson, a local resident and member of a neighborhood watch group. “Pine Avenue has become a danger zone. We need more enforcement, more patrols, and definitely more speed bumps or cameras.”

In response to the growing concern, City Council member Renee Walker held an emergency press conference Sunday afternoon, calling for immediate measures to address pedestrian safety in Niagara Falls.

“No one should fear for their life while crossing the street in their own neighborhood,” said Walker. “We will work with law enforcement and the Department of Public Works to ensure that this stretch of road, and others like it, are made safer for everyone.”

Support for the Victim

A GoFundMe page created by Grant’s sister, Amanda Grant, has already raised over $15,000 in just two days. The funds will go toward Melissa’s medical bills, rehabilitation, and potential long-term care if needed. The campaign has received donations and heartfelt messages from friends, co-workers, and even strangers moved by the tragic circumstances.

“Melissa is one of the kindest people I know,” Amanda wrote on the fundraiser page. “She didn’t deserve this. We’re just thankful she’s alive and that we can still hold her hand.”

Grant, a graphic designer and part-time volunteer at the Niagara Falls Animal Shelter, is described by friends as generous, creative, and deeply compassionate.

“She’s always putting others first. Now it’s our turn to support her,” said coworker Nina Russell.

Legal Ramifications

In New York State, fleeing the scene of an accident that causes injury is considered a felony. If the driver is caught, they could face serious charges, including leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, reckless driving, and possibly vehicular assault depending on the circumstances.

Attorney Mark Donovan, who specializes in personal injury law in Western New York, commented on the situation: “Hit-and-run cases can be complex, but when there’s clear evidence of negligence and flight, the courts take them very seriously. If the driver is found, the victim could also pursue civil damages.”

Donovan added that even if the driver isn’t identified, victims may still have recourse through uninsured motorist coverage, depending on their insurance policies.

City’s Response and Future Plans

Following the incident, city officials have pledged to conduct a full safety review of Pine Avenue and other high-traffic pedestrian zones. Recommendations may include new crosswalk signs, better lighting, flashing pedestrian signals, and increased police patrols during evening hours.

Mayor Robert Restaino also weighed in on the matter during his weekly radio address.

“We’re deeply saddened by what happened to Melissa Grant,” said Restaino. “No one should suffer due to someone else’s carelessness. We’re committed to taking steps that will prevent future tragedies.”

The mayor also emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving hit-and-run cases. “If you saw something, say something. Your tip could make all the difference.”

How the Public Can Help

The Niagara Falls Police Department has set up a dedicated tip line for information regarding the incident. Anyone who saw the crash or has relevant footage is urged to call (716) 286-4711 or submit anonymous tips via the department’s online portal.

Authorities are especially interested in talking to residents or drivers who may have dashcam footage recorded in the area between 8:30 and 9:00 p.m. on the night of the accident.

Even small details, like a unique bumper sticker or a broken tail light, could help lead to an arrest.

A Wake-Up Call for the City

As Melissa Grant continues to recover, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers pedestrians face and the responsibility all drivers share in keeping the roads safe. For many in Niagara Falls, this tragedy is a call to action—not just for justice, but for change.

“I’m hopeful that something good can come from this,” Amanda Grant told reporters. “If this wakes people up, if it makes just one driver slow down, then maybe there’s a silver lining.”

In the meantime, the community continues to wait, watch, and hope that the person responsible for this crime is brought to justice.
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