Queens street renamed in honor of LaGuardia Airport worker killed by a drunk-driving firefighter.

The family of Justin Diaz, a 23-year-old LaGuardia Airport baggage handler tragically killed in a collision with a drunken firefighter, commemorated his life with a street renaming ceremony in Queens on Saturday. The event took place at the intersection of 107th Street and Northern Boulevard, near the site of the fatal accident.

Attended by local officials including Councilman Francisco Moya, the ceremony involved co-naming the street “Justin Diaz Way.” This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired and reckless driving, as the family seeks to honor Diaz’s legacy by promoting road safety.

Justin Diaz was en route to his job at around 4:15 a.m. on February 26 when a Mercedes-Benz, driven by 28-year-old firefighter Michael Pena, collided with his vehicle. Reports indicated that Pena was driving at an alarming speed of 83 mph in a 25 mph zone when he failed to stop at a steady red light, striking Diaz’s BMW. Investigations revealed that Diaz had the right of way at the time of the accident. Following the collision, paramedics transported Diaz to Elmhurst Hospital Center, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

In the wake of this devastating loss, Franklin Diaz, Justin’s brother, articulated the grief that enveloped their family, noting that Justin had recently completed his degree in aeronautics and had a promising future ahead of him.

Pena has faced serious legal repercussions for his actions. Authorities suspended him without pay for 28 days as investigations commenced. Analysis of drug tests conducted post-collision revealed that Pena was under the influence of both cocaine and marijuana, with a blood-alcohol content of 0.156 percent—almost double the legal limit of 0.08. He has been charged with vehicular manslaughter, driving while intoxicated (DWI), and refusal to submit to a breathalyzer test. Following his arraignment, Pena’s driver’s license was suspended, and he was released on a ,000 cash bail or 0,000 bond.

His legal troubles are ongoing, with his next court appearance scheduled for January 8 of next year. The tragic incident has sparked discussions about road safety and the implications of impaired driving, bringing to light the profound impact reckless behavior can have on families and communities. The family hopes that the renaming of the street serves as a reminder to the public about the vital importance of safe driving practices.