QUEENS, NY — Edward Garzon, a 43-year-old man from Dothan, Alabama, has been formally charged in connection with a deadly hit-and-run incident that occurred in December 2021 near the Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale, Queens. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the charges following a thorough review by the newly formed Vehicular Homicide Unit.
The incident took place on December 13, 2021, when Garzon, reportedly driving a black 2015 Mercedes Benz S550, struck 79-year-old Helena Conti as she crossed Cooper Avenue at the intersection with 83rd Street. Conti suffered severe head trauma and later died in a local hospital.
Following a detailed investigation, which included the discovery of DNA samples on the vehicle matching the victim, Garzon was arraigned before Supreme Court Justice Michael Hartofilis. The judge has scheduled a court return for July 22 and set bail at $10,000. If convicted, Garzon faces up to seven years in prison.
District Attorney Katz emphasized the role of the Vehicular Homicide Unit in revisiting unsolved cases to ensure justice for families of victims. The NYPD collaborated closely in the investigation that led to Garzon’s charges.