Hill's News Wire

Independent Local News for our Neighbors in Queens & Brooklyn

Photo Courtesy River Fund NYC

CPA day at river fund

August 12th 2023, The streets of Richmond Hill were filled with hope and community spirit as thousands of residents gathered for the 10th annual Child Poverty Awareness Day, hosted by the local nonprofit, The River Fund.

The event, a beacon of support for families facing financial challenges, provided essential school supplies and groceries to those in need. Over 4,000 backpacks filled with notebooks and other educational materials were distributed, with families lining up for blocks to receive the generous donations. Any remaining backpacks were given to local shelters and charitable organizations.

Photo: ABC7NY

Fire kills one in ozp

August 11, 2023, A devastating fire in Ozone Park resulted in the death of a 93-year-old woman and left her 67-year-old neighbor injured. Authorities have identified a lithium-ion battery as the cause of the blaze, possibly linked to an e-bike.

The incident unfolded on a residential street, where firefighters worked tirelessly to control the fire. The scene was filled with concern and apprehension as residents awaited information.

The fire department's investigation concluded that the fire was accidental, and attention was drawn to a burned e-bike at the location. This tragic event adds to a concerning trend involving e-bike batteries, with numerous incidents, injuries, and fatalities reported this year.

Deshi Center Closed

August 9th 2023, The relocation of the Deshi Senior Center from 83-10 Rockaway Blvd has left the community with a great loss. Deshi Senior Center leased by Misba Abdin and his associates in 2016 turned 83-10 into more than just a building; it was a hub of community life and a second home to many.

Abdin's dedication to putting people over profit allowed for a wide array of activities, including gatherings, public safety forums, civic meetings, trainings, and the vital food pantry that was initiated in the most challenging times of 2020.

While the building now stands empty, the seniors and the myriad activities that once filled its halls have moved to a new location (pending an official announcement).

Community members remember with fondness the sense of unity, support, and empowerment that the Deshi Center nurtured.

Though the future of 83-10 Rockaway Blvd remains uncertain, the memories and organizations built within its walls endure. The legacy of Abdin's commitment to the community's well-being and the principle of people over profit has left an indelible mark, and many look forward to the new chapter that the seniors will write in their new home.

Suspicious Vehicle in City Line

August 6th 2023, members of the NYPD and FDNY were on the scene of a suspicious vehicle in City Line, Brooklyn. After hours of investigation, the van and its contents were deemed safe.

CB9 Chair honored at the 102's Night Out

August 1st 2023, Sherry Algredo, Chairperson of Community Board 9, was honored at National Night Out by the 102nd Precinct. A prominent figure in the community, Algredo has made significant contributions to education and local governance in south Queens. Her historic achievement as the first Trinidadian and Indo-Caribbean woman to lead Community Board 9 has been a source of inspiration. The recognition at National Night Out underscores her dedication to community service and her role as a leader in Ozone Park.

COPCP Cleans Graffiti in ozone park

August 2nd 2023, The Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol (COPCP) conducted a graffiti cleaning initiative in Ozone Park. This effort is part of COPCP's ongoing commitment to maintaining a clean and appealing community.

Sharks in rockaway

August 7th 2023, A 65-year-old woman, identified as Tatyana Koltunyuk, was bitten by a shark at Rockaway Beach. This is the first shark attack in the area in decades. Lifeguards and police officers provided immediate first aid, and Koltunyuk was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in serious but stable condition. The beach was temporarily closed and monitored, but no further shark sightings were confirmed. Authorities have emphasized that shark attacks in Rockaway are extremely rare and have taken precautions to ensure beachgoers' safety.

Attack on the 'A' Line

August 3rd 2023, A 61-year-old A train rider was pepper-sprayed in a random attack on August 2nd 2023, near the Rockaway Boulevard station. The assailant fled and remains at large. The victim refused medical attention. The suspect, last seen wearing a blue face mask, gray sweatshirt, and dark cap, is being sought by the NYPD. Anyone with information is urged to call 800-577-TIPS.

No charges in 2021 fatal Collision

June 30th 2023, Attorney General Letitia James announced that no charges will be brought against NYPD Officer Angelo Hurtado, who was off-duty when he struck and killed two men in Ozone Park in May 2021. The AG's Office of Special Investigation determined that Hurtado had the green light and was driving slightly above the speed limit when the collision occurred. Although Hurtado had consumed alcohol earlier in the evening, multiple witnesses and field sobriety tests did not indicate impairment. The AG's office recommended training for NYPD supervisors in administering breathalyzer tests to ensure accurate results.

Spotted Lanternflies: A Growing Threat

June 29th 2023, The spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect from Asia, has become a significant concern in parts of the United States. Known for their distinctive spotted wings, these pests feed on various plants, including grapes and apples, causing substantial damage. Since their detection in Pennsylvania in 2014, efforts to control their spread have included public awareness campaigns, quarantine measures, and targeted treatments. The situation underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting agriculture from invasive species.

Eid Preparations in Ozone Park

June 27th 2023, Barricades and "No Parking" signs placed at Ampere Playground in preparation for Eid. The local Civilian Patrol was also seen lending a hand with preparations. With many masjids expected to go over capacity, the city has designated permitted spaces for prayer. The NYPD will have an increased presence throughout the city.

a needed presence in east new york

May 26th 2023, NYPD ESU patrols increased near the Linden Houses where an increase in Crime is expected over the holiday weekend.

Track Fire at 80th street

May 19th 2023, Members of the New York City Fire Department Extinguish a track fire on 80th Street . Also on the scene: MTA, NYPD TD 23, COP Civilian Patrol

Concerns Addressed by the 102 precinct

May 15th 2023, Officers from the 102nd Precinct were seen tagging multiple derelict vehicles in Ozone Park, part of an ongoing effort to identify and remove abandoned cars from the area.

HOuse fire in ozone park

May 10th 2023, A house fire on 77th Street in Ozone Park has displaced a family. The FDNY responded quickly to contain the blaze, but the residence suffered significant damage.Community support is being provided to the affected family.

Movie night in centerville

May 9th 2023, Council Member Ariola and NYC Parks hosted a movie screening at Centerville Park, bringing the community together for an evening of entertainment. Members of COPCP generously donated snacks, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Tree Down in Ozone Park

May 5th 2023, Members of the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol reported a downed tree branch and placed safety precautions.

Sheriff's in Town

April 11th 2023, Sheriff Anthony Miranda spoke at the Queens Community Board 9 General Meeting where he addressed illegal weed stores. Community Board 9 encompesses Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Kew Gardens, and Richmond Hill

jPR shutdown... again!!!

March 29th 2023, The Jackie Robinson Parkway was once again shut down due to an oversized truck. Over recent months, this issue has grown expotenially. NYPD, NYC DOT, and FDNY were on the scene.

Four Innocent Bystanders, Including Two Teens, Shot In Ozone Park

September 27th 2022, A horrifying act of violence unfolded at London Planetree Skate Park in Ozone Park, Queens, on Tuesday evening, leaving four innocent bystanders wounded.

According to police, two gunmen entered the park, located at Atlantic Avenue and 88th Street, and began firing indiscriminately. At least 23 shots were fired in a mad burst of violence, with children nearby.

The victims include:

A 15-year-old girl, shot in the leg, taken to Long Island Jewish Medical Center in stable condition.

A 16-year-old boy, shot in the back, also taken to Long Island Jewish Medical Center in stable condition.

A 20-year-old man, shot twice in the leg, taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in stable condition.

A 32-year-old man, shot in the leg, also taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in stable condition.

All victims are expected to survive, and none appeared to be the intended targets.

Police are actively investigating the incident, reviewing surveillance camera footage to identify the vehicle that carried the gunmen into the park. No arrests have been made yet.

The park is known to be a gang hangout, and authorities believe the shooting was gang-related.

The community is left shaken by this senseless act of violence.

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