LOWER MANHATTAN, NY – A former substance abuse counselor, Daniel Heiden, was found guilty of second-degree murder after a tragic incident on the Lower East Side. The July 4 crash last year claimed the lives of four people at a park gathering. Heiden, driving under the influence, struck a group enjoying a barbecue, leaving a community in mourning.
The verdict was delivered in a somber courtroom, where the word “guilty” was pronounced 12 times. Family members of the victims, alongside survivors, quietly expressed relief. Though the ruling brought some closure, the loss remains immense.
Heiden faced a bench trial, meaning his fate was decided by a judge rather than a jury. On that fateful day, witnesses recounted how a celebration turned tragic. As festivities wound down and attendees prepared for fireworks, Heiden’s truck barreled into the park at speeds up to 54 mph, hitting the unsuspecting crowd.
Among the deceased were Lucille and Herman Pinkney, Emily Ruiz, and Anna Morrell. Seven others sustained injuries, including Hector Moreno, who testified about being thrown eight feet. Moreno witnessed the deaths of loved ones, describing the emotional toll as indescribable.
Prior to the crash, Heiden had been involved in an altercation at Pier 36. Security had denied him entry to a party boat due to his intoxication. Although police were called to the scene, Heiden was allowed to leave, only to cause devastation less than an hour later. His blood alcohol content was measured at 0.17.
Adding a layer of irony, Heiden had authored a memoir titled “The Sober Addict,” detailing the dangers of drinking and driving. His previous role as a counselor and his writings highlight the stark contrast between his actions and his professional life.
The sentencing is scheduled for December 3, where the community hopes justice will further honor the memory of those lost. The families continue to grapple with their grief, seeking solace in the judicial outcome.