Former FDNY firefighter charged in fatal Brooklyn crash jailed at Rikers after authorities discovered his OnlyFans account.

A former firefighter with the New York City Fire Department, Michael Pena, has been remanded to Rikers Island following his arraignment on multiple charges related to a fatal crash that claimed the life of 23-year-old Justin Diaz. Pena, 28, was allegedly driving his Mercedes-Benz at a speed of 83 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone when he crashed into Diaz’s BMW after running a red light. The incident occurred in East Elmhurst, Queens, early in the morning on February 26, 2025, as Diaz was en route to his job as a baggage handler at LaGuardia Airport.

During the court proceedings, prosecutors cited concerns about Pena’s potential flight risk, noting that he appeared to have been managing a “pseudo” OnlyFans business, which provided him with an income stream. Assistant District Attorney Vivian Gonzalez emphasized that Pena’s community ties had diminished following his termination from the FDNY, heightening concerns that he could evade legal consequences. It was revealed that Pena had a troubling history of traffic violations, accumulating 25 speeding tickets in school zones over recent years. Due to these concerns, Judge Michael Hartofilis revoked Pena’s 0,000 bond.

Pena stands accused of 14 criminal charges, including manslaughter, assault, and driving while intoxicated. If convicted, he faces a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years. Reports indicate that at the time of the accident, Pena’s blood alcohol content measured at 0.156%, nearly double the legal limit, and he also tested positive for cocaine and marijuana.

Following his arrest, Pena was suspended from the FDNY without pay for 28 days and was subsequently terminated upon his return. The case has drawn significant attention, especially from Diaz’s family, who attended the court appearance. Justin Diaz’s father expressed relief upon learning of the bail revocation, stating that the legal actions represented a small step towards justice for his son. Meanwhile, both parents mourn the loss of a son who had ambitions of pursuing an aeronautics degree and was on the cusp of a promising future. Following Diaz’s tragic death, memorial services included placing his degree in his casket—a poignant reminder of what could have been.

As the legal proceedings continue, the community watches closely, not only for justice for Justin Diaz but also for broader implications concerning road safety and accountability in traffic-related fatalities. The future of Michael Pena now rests in the hands of the judicial system, with the next court appearances expected to provide further clarity on this high-profile case.