Brothers Fixing Flat on NY Parkway Struck, 1 Killed; Accused Hit-Run Driver Faces Judge

Jonathan Shaver, 51, of Rocky Point, was arraigned in Suffolk County Court for allegedly striking two brothers on a Long Island parkway, killing one, and fleeing the scene.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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An accused hit-and-run driver, Jonathan Shaver, 51, of Rocky Point, faced a judge after allegedly striking two brothers on a Long Island parkway, killing one, and fleeing the scene. The incident occurred on January 29 as the brothers, Edgar Mejia and his brother, were changing a tire on the shoulder of William Floyd Parkway in Shirley. Shaver was driving a Honda Accord northbound when he struck the brothers, with Mejia pronounced dead at the scene and his brother transported to the hospital in critical condition.

Why it matters

This case highlights the dangers that roadside assistance workers and Good Samaritans face, as well as the ongoing issue of hit-and-run incidents and the need for stronger laws and enforcement to hold drivers accountable when they flee the scene of a crash.

The details

Shaver was charged with two counts of leaving the scene of an incident without reporting, both felonies. Investigators recovered surveillance video allegedly showing Shaver's vehicle traveling northbound after the collision without a passenger-side headlight, and police later located Shaver's Honda Accord parked outside his home with front-end damage.

  • The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
  • Shaver was arraigned in Suffolk County Court on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Jonathan Shaver

A 51-year-old resident of Rocky Point, New York, who was the accused hit-and-run driver in this incident.

Edgar Mejia

A 31-year-old resident of Mastic Beach, New York, who was killed in the incident while changing a tire on the shoulder of the parkway.

Edgar Mejia's brother

The brother of Edgar Mejia, who was also struck and suffered serious injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, and remains in critical condition.

Salvador Mejia

The father of Edgar Mejia, who works as a senior property maintenance crew foreman.

Jackson Dodds & Co.

The company where Edgar Mejia worked as a senior plant health care technician and certified applicator with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

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What they’re saying

“The defendant allegedly struck two men who were simply trying to fix a tire on the shoulder of the parkway and fled the scene without stopping to render aid. We owe it to them and their families to pursue justice, and this indictment is an important step in that direction.”

— Raymond Tierney, District Attorney

“Edgar and Omar, along with their father Sal, are part of our family at Jackson Dodds & Co. We are reaching out to the broader community to help support Omar's recovery and their family during this shocking tragedy.”

— Kelly Dodds (GoFundMe)

“Edgar was known for his passion, knowledge, and leadership in Plant Health Care, as well as for his kind, considerate nature and willingness to always step up for others. Edgar's presence made our company better, and he will be deeply missed.”

— Kelly Dodds (GoFundMe)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Jonathan Shaver out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the risks that roadside assistance workers and Good Samaritans face, and the urgent need for stronger laws and enforcement to hold hit-and-run drivers accountable. It also highlights the importance of community support for families affected by such senseless acts of violence.