Justin Diaz East Elmhurst NY Death and Obituary – A tragic incident in East Elmhurst, Queens, has taken the life of 23-year-old Justin Diaz and led to the arrest of an off-duty firefighter, Michael Pena, who faces charges of driving while intoxicated (DWI) and vehicular manslaughter. The collision, which occurred early in the morning on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, has shaken the local community and reignited discussions about the dangers of impaired driving.
The fatal crash occurred at approximately 4:15 a.m. when Justin Diaz, a ramp agent at Delta Airlines, was driving his 2022 BMW northbound on 107th Street, heading to work at LaGuardia Airport. As he approached the intersection with Northern Boulevard, Diaz’s vehicle was struck violently by a 2015 Mercedes, driven by off-duty Fire Department of New York (FDNY) firefighter Michael Pena. According to authorities, Pena ran a red light at the intersection of 107th Street and Northern Boulevard, which led to the fatal collision.
The impact of the crash was devastating. Diaz’s BMW was violently spun and ultimately struck a parked car, causing the vehicle’s roof to be torn off and the driver’s side to be completely crushed. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported Diaz to Elmhurst Hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Pena, who was stationed at Engine 304 in Queens, remained at the scene of the crash and reportedly attempted to check on Diaz but received no response. Police quickly arrived and assessed the situation, suspecting that Pena had been driving under the influence. Pena refused to submit to a breathalyzer test, which only compounded the severity of the charges against him. He was arrested on charges of vehicular manslaughter, DWI, and refusal to take a breathalyzer test.
As a result of his actions, Pena has been suspended from duty without pay for 28 days while legal proceedings unfold. His position as a firefighter has added complexity to the case, as many are questioning how such a highly trained first responder could make such a reckless decision.
Justin Diaz, described by family, friends, and colleagues as a hardworking and ambitious young man, was well-liked at his job at LaGuardia Airport. His position as a ramp agent was more than just employment—it was part of his larger dream to build a career in the aviation industry. Diaz’s family, friends, and coworkers have been left devastated by the sudden and tragic loss. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief, with many expressing their sorrow over his untimely passing.
This tragic incident has sparked widespread calls for stricter measures to combat impaired driving, particularly among individuals in positions of responsibility. The FDNY has strict policies regarding off-duty conduct, and Pena’s arrest has highlighted the need for continued vigilance in enforcing these regulations. There is growing concern about the potential for similar incidents, especially given the high standards expected of first responders.
Advocacy groups and community leaders have also called for enhanced enforcement against drunk driving. Proposals for increased law enforcement patrols, harsher penalties for DWI offenses, and public awareness campaigns have gained traction as a means to prevent future tragedies.
The legal proceedings against Michael Pena will be closely followed, as vehicular manslaughter is a serious charge that can result in significant prison time if convicted. Pena’s refusal to take a breathalyzer test could further complicate his defense, with prosecutors likely to use it as evidence that he was attempting to conceal his level of intoxication. Furthermore, his status as an FDNY firefighter is likely to add scrutiny to the case, given the trust placed in individuals who serve in such critical roles.
In the meantime, the East Elmhurst community, along with Diaz’s colleagues at LaGuardia Airport, has come together to mourn his loss. Vigils and memorials are being planned, and social media has become a platform for expressing grief, frustration, and calls for justice. Many people are also advocating for stronger measures against impaired driving, hoping to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
The death of Justin Diaz is a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the profound impact that a single reckless decision can have on lives. As the case against Michael Pena moves forward, the tragedy underscores the importance of responsible decision-making behind the wheel. It is a call to action for lawmakers, law enforcement, and the public to work together to eliminate impaired driving and make New York City’s streets safer for all.