Driver in Williamsburg Hit and Run Death Sentenced for 5 to 15 Years in Prison

WILLIAMSBURG – The driver who killed a bicyclist in a hit and run last year has been sentenced to serve 5 to 15 years in prison, announced Acting Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzales.

Defendant Juan Maldonado, 57, of Williamsburg, was previously found guilty of reckless manslaughter, leaving the scene of an incident and reckless driving after killing 35-year old Matthew von Ohlen, of Queens.

“The reckless and dastardly actions of this defendant took the life of a beloved cyclist and advocate for safe streets,” said the acting district attorney. “We cannot tolerate this kind of violent behavior by motorists and I am committed to continue doing my part in ensuring the safety of everyone who uses Brooklyn roads – drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike.”

On July 2, 2016, around 2:37am, the Maldonado swerved his black Chevy Camaro into the bike lane near Grand Street and Manhattan Avenue in Williamsburg. He then sped through a red light and struck the victim, continuing to drive and dragging him 10 to 20 feet.

The victim was taken to Bellevue Hospital where he was pronounced dead of blunt force trauma to the head.