Teenager fatally struck by vehicle in Queens, police say

A teenager was fatally struck by a vehicle Wednesday afternoon while crossing a street in Queens, New York police said.

Police said a 16-year-old girl and an 8-year-old girl, who were sisters, were struck by a delivery truck turning right from 47th Avenue onto 46th Street just before 3:30 p.m.

The truck had a green light, police said.

The driver stopped a block away and was heard saying he didn't know he hit them, officials said. After the accident, he went on and made a delivery to a bodega.

The 16-year-old girl was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. The 8-year-old girl was transported to NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and is in stable condition, according to police.

The 8-year-old girl suffered life-threatening injuries to her head and leg, according to authorities.

“It was hard to see that,” said Justin Castilo, a student.

It was the last day of classes at IS 125, a school located in the neighborhood where the accident occurred.

Students like Castilo collected their diplomas after graduation.

“When I saw the mother, I almost started crying myself. I had to leave after that and go for a walk,” he said.

In a statement, a Department for Education spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with the victims of this horrific accident and their families. We offer our support to the school community as they support each other during this time.

Neighborhood residents like Orlando Diaz say the accident affected them because he is a father.

Several community members gather near the crime scene.

“I feel worried because it's a dramatic tragedy and yes, I feel, like I said, at that moment, I was shocked. I didn't know if I should take care of the children. But since my wife was with me, she stayed there and I came to see if I could find the truck or van that was there,” said Queens resident Orlando Diaz.

According to authorities, the driver is in custody.

It's unclear what charges he might face, officials said. The investigation is ongoing.