On Friday, November 10, 2023, Maria Rodriguez, a 73-year-old grandmother, lost her life after being struck by a school bus in Ozone Park, Queens, New York. 

This incident occurred shortly after Rodriguez had dropped off her three granddaughters at their school.

The accident took place around 7:30 a.m. as Rodriguez was using a marked crosswalk to cross the street. A school bus, turning left from 86th Street onto 107th Avenue, collided with her. Officers from the 106th Precinct found Rodriguez lying on the road, unconscious and unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene by the Emergency Medical Services.

At the time of the accident, the bus was carrying four children, all under the age of 12. Fortunately, none of the children suffered any injuries. 

Maria Marte, 47, of East Elmhurst, New York, was operating the bus. She remained at the site of the accident and was later arrested. Marte faces charges for failing to yield to a pedestrian and not exercising due caution. The NYPD’s Highway District Collision Investigation Squad is conducting a detailed investigation of the incident. Marte is scheduled to appear in court on November 30, as announced by the Queens District Attorney’s office.

Rodriguez, a beloved figure in her family, was remembered by her grandson Joel as the “happiest person in the family.” She played a vital role in familial gatherings, particularly during festive occasions like Thanksgiving. Her sudden demise has left her relatives and the wider community in a state of profound mourning.

Originally from the Dominican Republic, Rodriguez resided in the Bronx, New York, but was staying with her daughter in Queens to assist with family matters.