The Williamsburg community is mourning the tragic loss of 84-year-old Noach Klein, who was fatally struck by a van while walking in Borough Park on Wednesday evening. The heartbreaking incident, which also left another man injured, has reignited calls for stronger pedestrian safety measures in one of Brooklyn’s busiest neighborhoods.
Noach Klein Car Accident
According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), the crash occurred shortly after 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of 49th Street and 18th Avenue, an area known for heavy foot traffic and evening congestion. Preliminary reports indicate that Klein and another pedestrian were crossing the street when a 2018 Ford Transit van, driven by a 38-year-old man, struck them.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes. Both victims received immediate medical attention before being transported to Maimonides Medical Center. Despite intensive efforts by hospital staff, Noach Klein succumbed to his injuries. The second pedestrian, a 54-year-old man, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
Video captured from the scene showed first responders surrounding the crash site as bystanders looked on in shock. A hat and a pair of broken eyeglasses lay on the pavement — stark reminders of the tragedy’s violence. Police confirmed that the driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. No arrests or summonses have been issued as of Thursday morning.
The NYPD Collision Investigation Squad continues to examine the incident, looking into contributing factors such as lighting, visibility, and road conditions. Early findings suggest that neither speed nor driver impairment played a role.
Community Grieves a Respected Neighbor
News of Klein’s death has sent waves of sorrow through Williamsburg and Borough Park, where he was known as a gentle, devout, and well-respected member of the community. Neighbors described him as a man of quiet strength — someone who was deeply rooted in faith, family, and community service.
“He was the kind of person everyone knew and admired,” said one longtime resident. “Always with a kind word, always walking to synagogue or visiting friends. It’s just heartbreaking.”
Advocates have long raised concerns about the intersection where the crash occurred, noting its limited visibility and heavy traffic during rush hours. Community leaders are once again urging city officials to implement traffic-calming measures, improved crosswalk signals, and enhanced lighting to prevent future tragedies.
As family, friends, and neighbors come together to remember Noach Klein, his passing stands as a painful reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety across New York City. Authorities are asking anyone with information or video footage related to the crash to contact NYPD Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.