A 27-year-old passenger was killed after a car crashed into scaffolding in Midtown Manhattan early Wednesday, leading to the arrest of the driver and an investigation into allegations that alcohol contributed to the collision.
Police said the crash occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Madison Avenue near East 42nd Street. Investigators believe the driver of a 2024 Tesla lost control of the vehicle, struck a mailbox and then slammed into sidewalk scaffolding.
The passenger, identified as Harlem resident Elise Suomi, sustained critical injuries. Emergency medical personnel transported her to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The driver, identified by authorities as 27-year-old Connecticut resident Alejandra Paharsingh, was also taken to a hospital and listed in stable condition.
According to police, the vehicle did not remain at the initial crash site. It reportedly continued for several blocks before stopping near Second Avenue. Officers subsequently took the driver into custody.
Paharsingh faces charges including vehicular manslaughter, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and driving while her ability was allegedly impaired. The allegations have not yet been proven in court.
The collision damaged the scaffolding and left debris scattered around the site. Police temporarily restricted access to part of the street while emergency crews inspected the structure, cleared the roadway and documented evidence.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance recordings, examining the vehicle and working to establish its speed and movements before the impact. Authorities have not publicly explained why the driver continued away from the damaged scaffolding or disclosed the relationship between the two women.
The crash occurred near Grand Central Terminal in one of Manhattan’s busiest commercial and transportation districts. Although traffic was light at the time, the presence of sidewalk scaffolding and surrounding buildings increased concerns about potential injuries to pedestrians.
The investigation remains active, and additional charges could be considered depending on the results of toxicology testing and the police review.
