Retired NYC correction officer accused in deadly hit-and-run incident in Brooklyn.
A retired city correction officer has been indicted following a hit-and-run incident that resulted in the death of a pedestrian in Brooklyn. The indictment comes nearly two months after the tragic event occurred on May 17, when 65-year-old Raymond Campbell, a resident of Brooklyn, allegedly struck 55-year-old Frederick Solomon while he was crossing Washington Street at approximately 12:20 a.m.
Authorities report that Campbell was driving a burgundy Ford Explorer westbound on Fulton Street when the collision took place. After hitting Solomon, Campbell reportedly fled the scene, prompting a swift medical response. Emergency medics transported Solomon to New York Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Further investigation led police to track Campbell to his second residence in Pennsylvania, where he voluntarily surrendered the following day. His vehicle is registered out of Pennsylvania, which has raised additional questions regarding jurisdiction and accountability in the case. The office of the Assistant District Attorney, James Hamilton, stated that Campbell faces charges related to leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
The arraignment took place in Brooklyn Supreme Court, where Judge Kim Petersen set bail at ,000 cash or ,000 bond. Prosecutors have referenced substantial evidence against Campbell, which purportedly includes eyewitness accounts, video footage of the incident, and a confession. Surveillance video reviewed by Media News Source shows Solomon limping across the street; moments later, a vehicle striking him appears to launch him forward abruptly.
During the proceedings, Campbell’s attorney, Sam Getz, argued that his client is not a flight risk, citing his established work history, absence of a criminal record, and family ties within the community. Getz asserted that Campbell was aware of the impending charges and had no intent to evade law enforcement.
The judge acknowledged the need for bail given Campbell’s connections to Pennsylvania. Following the hearing, it was reported that Campbell expressed concerns for his safety, requesting protective custody if he were to be placed in Rikers Island.
Campbell is scheduled to appear in court again on August 11 as the case continues to unfold. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian safety in urban settings, especially given the statistics indicating rising pedestrian fatalities across New York City. As authorities continue to grapple with these types of incidents, the need for stricter traffic regulations and enforcement may become increasingly apparent.
