Passenger in stolen car arrested after hit-and-run in Chinatown results in two deaths.

In a tragic incident that unfolded in Chinatown, a stolen vehicle veered off the road, resulting in the deaths of two pedestrians. The crash, which occurred on the morning of July 19, 2025, has prompted criminal charges against one of the passengers in the vehicle.

Kennedy Lecraft, a 22-year-old, faces multiple charges, including possession of a weapon, possession of stolen property, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Authorities reported that Lecraft had rented a blue Chevrolet Malibu from Enterprise but failed to return it by the agreed date of June 29. After the crash, law enforcement discovered two 9-mm pistols along with a box of ammunition stashed in the trunk of the wrecked vehicle.

The driver of the car, Autumn Donna Ascension Romero, 23, has been hospitalized since the fatal accident, and further charges against her are currently pending. Romero, who had been released without bail after an earlier hit-and-run incident in April, was reportedly driving at high speeds when her vehicle careened off the Manhattan Bridge, colliding with innocent bystanders at the intersection of Bowery and Canal Street around 7:30 AM.

Among the victims was May Kwok, 63, who was seated on a bench when struck. Kevin Cruickshank, 55, was riding his bicycle when he was also hit. Sadly, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Cruickshank, described by family members as a strong advocate for street safety, was preparing for an upcoming biking event organized by Transportation Alternatives, indicating his dedication to cycling and community safety.

Following the collision, both Lecraft and Ascension Romero fled the scene on foot but were apprehended by police with the assistance of eyewitnesses. Lecraft was subsequently presented in Manhattan Criminal Court, where she was ordered to be held on a 0,000 bond.

The incident has raised concerns regarding public safety and the actions of individuals involved in dangerous driving. As investigations continue, the families of the victims are mourning their untimely deaths and calling for greater accountability in traffic-related tragedies.