A fatal vehicle attack in Elmhurst ended the life of a 16-year-old girl and injured two family members in the early morning hours. On Saturday, September 13, 2025, around 4:10 a.m., 16-year-old Jhoanny Gomez-Alvarez was outside the Prima Donna Restaurant on Roosevelt Avenue with her mother, stepfather, and boyfriend when a verbal dispute began with a 38-year-old man identified as Edwin Cruz Gomez of Uniondale. The confrontation reportedly started after Cruz Gomez made crude sexual propositions and offered money for sexual acts toward Jhoanny and her mother.

After a scuffle between Cruz Gomez and Jhoanny’s stepfather was broken up by bystanders, the family crossed the street. Authorities say Cruz Gomez then got into a Chevrolet Suburban, drove onto the sidewalk and struck Jhoanny, pinning her against a pole; she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother and stepfather were also struck and wounded. Cruz Gomez was taken into custody a short time later; police reported his blood alcohol content at .137 and said he fled the scene on foot after striking a parked van.

The accused was arraigned on multiple charges including second-degree murder, attempted murder, assault and driving while intoxicated and was held in custody awaiting further court proceedings. What did anyone in Elmhurst see that morning that could help clarify the sequence of events?