Brooklyn, New York — Noach Klein, 84, lost his life Wednesday evening after being struck by a van while crossing a street in Borough Park. The tragic event occurred just after 6:30 p.m. at the intersection of 49th Street and 18th Avenue, marking Klein as the fourth pedestrian fatality in his precinct this year—twice as many as had died by this time last year.

Klein, a resident of nearby Williamsburg, was crossing the street alongside a 54-year-old man when a 2018 Ford Transit van, driven by a 38-year-old, struck both pedestrians. While neither victim was inside a marked crosswalk, police confirmed the traffic signal favored those walking, giving them the right of way.

Paramedics arrived swiftly at the scene, tending to the injured and transporting both men to Maimonides Medical Center. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Klein succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The other pedestrian sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.

The van driver remained at the scene and fully cooperated with police. Authorities have not made any arrests or filed charges at this time. Investigators emphasized that preliminary findings show the driver was neither speeding nor impaired, suggesting other factors may have contributed to the tragic outcome.

Footage captured at the scene illustrates the severity of the collision. Personal items, including a hat and shattered glasses, were scattered across the street, marking the force of the impact. Emergency workers can be seen providing immediate care to both victims, highlighting the tense and chaotic moments following the crash.

The NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad is reviewing all available evidence to determine whether visibility, lighting, or road conditions played a role in the accident. Borough Park residents have long expressed concerns about the intersection, citing poor lighting and heavy evening pedestrian traffic as ongoing safety risks.

The 66th precinct, which covers Borough Park and surrounding neighborhoods, has recorded 164 pedestrian collisions this year. While the total number of collisions is slightly lower than last year, fatalities are increasing, with Klein being the fourth pedestrian to die in 2025 compared to only two by the same time in 2024.

Local safety advocates have repeatedly called for improvements, including better-marked crosswalks, traffic calming measures, and more visible signage. Despite these appeals, few upgrades have been implemented, leaving residents frustrated and fearful for their safety on busy streets.

Community members remembered Klein as an active and beloved figure in Williamsburg, known for his friendly demeanor and commitment to local activities. His passing has left a profound void, prompting neighbors and friends to reflect on the importance of road safety and vigilance.

Authorities continue to urge anyone with surveillance footage or information regarding the incident to contact Crime Stoppers. The tragic death of Noach Klein serves as a sobering reminder of the risks pedestrians face and the urgent need for city streets to be safer for all who walk them.