Jeffrey Frank, of Hewlett, killed by hit-and-run driver who dragged him from road before taking off
According to Detectives, a 74 year old male pedestrian was crossing Broadway in the vicinity of 1345 Broadway when he was struck by a dark colored SUV traveling northbound on Broadway. According to witnesses, a male driver of the SUV exited his vehicle, dragged the victim to the side of the road, re-entered his vehicle and fled the scene. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital and was later pronounced by a hospital physician on Dec.19, 2024 Credit: Bruce Cotler/Bruce Cotler
A Hewlett man was killed after a hit-and-run driver struck him while crossing Broadway in Hewlett on Wednesday night, Nassau police said.
Jeffrey Frank, 74, and member of the Hewlett Fire Department, was crossing Broadway near Everit Avenue around 10 p.m. when he was struck by a northbound dark-colored SUV.
According to witnesses, the male driver got out of the SUV and dragged Frank to the side of the road before getting back into the vehicle and driving off, police said.
Frank was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
The Hewlett Fire Department posted a statement on social media in honor of their fallen member.
"It is with sincere regret and profound sadness the Chiefs Office and members of the Hewlett Fire Department announce the passing of life member Jeffrey (JJ) Frank, of Engine Company 2," the post said. "JJ was a caring and dedicated member for over 35 years, and a true staple to the 5 Towns Community. He will be greatly missed."
Broadway was closed in the area for more than four hours before reopening at 2:15 a.m., police said. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information can call police at 800-244-8477.
More coverage: Long Island traffic crashes claimed 243 lives in 2022, 29% more than in 2019, Newsday has reported. The level was the highest since 2015, as dangerous driving increased post-COVID-19 and police traffic enforcement dropped, according to a Newsday analysis of crash and ticketing data and traffic experts.
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Newsday Live Music Series: Long Island Idols Newsday Live presents a special evening of music and conversation with local singers who grabbed the national spotlight on shows like "The Voice," "America's Got Talent,""The X-Factor" and "American Idol." Newsday Senior Lifestyle Host Elisa DiStefano leads a discussion and audience Q&A as the singers discuss their TV experiences, careers and perform original songs.
