NEW YORK CITY — A horrific crash in Lower Manhattan on Saturday morning, July 19, 2025, left two people dead and a community in mourning. A stolen blue Chevrolet Malibu, allegedly filled with drugs and alcohol, sped off the Manhattan Bridge around 7:30 a.m., striking a 63-year-old woman on a bench and a male cyclist. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving behind devastated families and a city demanding accountability.
**The Deadly Collision
The incident unfolded at the bustling intersection of Canal Street and Bowery in Chinatown, a hub of early morning activity. Witnesses reported the Malibu, driven erratically at high speed, jumped the curb without slowing, striking the victims with devastating force. The car then collided with a parked, unoccupied NYPD van, causing significant damage. The chaotic scene drew immediate attention from nearby pedestrians, one of whom, identified only as Christopher, confronted the fleeing suspects, shouting, “You’re not going anywhere, you just killed two people.”
The driver, a 23-year-old woman, and her 22-year-old female passenger attempted to flee on foot with their bags but were apprehended by NYPD officers about a block away. Both were taken to Bellevue Hospital for evaluation and testing for drugs and alcohol.
**Victims Mourned
One victim was identified as May Kwok, a 63-year-old Brooklyn resident from Bushwick, known for her warmth and deep ties to her community, including frequent visits to Chinatown for church and social activities. Her brother, Peter Kwok, 72, expressed profound grief and anger, stating, “This is not a car accident. They committed a crime, and they tried to get away because they’re reckless.” He learned of his sister’s death from another sibling after seeing news coverage of the crash, unaware she was a victim. “I want to see justice for my sister,” he added.
The male cyclist’s identity has not been released as authorities continue efforts to notify his family. The loss of both victims has left a deep impact on the community, with tributes pouring in for May Kwok’s kindness and quiet presence.
**A Stolen Vehicle and Contraband
The blue Chevy Malibu, bearing Wisconsin license plates, was reported stolen after the rental company, Enterprise, was unable to contact the renter. Police sources revealed the vehicle contained alcohol, marijuana, and prescription pills, suggesting a dangerous mix of substances may have contributed to the crash. The NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad is analyzing the vehicle’s contents, surveillance footage, and witness accounts to piece together the events leading to the tragedy.
While no charges have been filed as of yet, authorities anticipate serious felony counts, potentially including vehicular manslaughter, reckless endangerment, possession of a stolen vehicle, and drug-related offenses, pending the results of toxicology tests and further investigation.
**NYPD and Community Response
Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch, who has overseen significant crime reductions in 2025, addressed the incident, emphasizing the NYPD’s commitment to a thorough investigation. “This heartbreaking event underscores the consequences of reckless and criminal behavior on our streets,” she said. “We will ensure those responsible face the full weight of the law.”
The crash has ignited widespread outrage, with the hashtag #JusticeForMayKwok trending on social media by midday. New Yorkers expressed grief and frustration, calling for stricter measures against impaired driving and stolen vehicle crimes. Residents near the Manhattan Bridge have renewed demands for enhanced traffic enforcement, citing persistent issues with speeding and illegal vehicle activity in the area.
**A Broader Context of Safety Concerns
The tragedy comes amid a year of notable progress in reducing traffic fatalities in New York City, with traffic deaths dropping from 65 in the first quarter of 2024 to 41 in 2025, according to the Department of Transportation. However, pedestrian deaths have risen compared to last year, with 64 reported by mid-July 2025. The incident has intensified calls for expanding Vision Zero initiatives, including more speed and red-light cameras, to curb dangerous driving.
**A Call for Information
The NYPD is urging anyone with information or footage of the crash to come forward. Tips can be submitted confidentially to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (or 888-57-PISTA for Spanish), online at crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, or via X at @NYPDTips.
As the investigation continues, the city mourns the loss of May Kwok and the unnamed cyclist, with their families and advocates vowing to seek justice and prevent future tragedies on New York’s streets.
