BROOKLYN, NY – A tragic accident in Gravesend, Brooklyn claimed the life of an 87-year-old woman on Wednesday. Joan Behan was struck by her own car outside her residence on West 10th Street.
According to reports, Behan, a former teacher’s aide, had just completed her prayers inside her car and then exited her 2013 Toyota Corolla. Tragically, she had forgotten to engage the parking brake. As she walked behind her car, it rolled backward, resulting in a fatal accident around 3 p.m.
The impact of the accident caused severe trauma to Behan’s head and torso. She was immediately rushed to NYU Langone Hospital-Brooklyn, but despite the efforts of the medical team, her life could not be saved.
Behan’s son, David, spoke fondly of his mother, describing her as an active, healthy, and sharp woman who frequently visited the gym. “She had just returned from a two-hour workout before the accident,” he said. He talked about her prays and said that she would always spend about 20 minutes praying in her car in the driveway.
This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures, even in seemingly safe environments like one’s own driveway. It also highlights the unpredictable nature of life, in which a routine activity can unexpectedly turn into a fatal accident.
The loss of Joan Behan, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, has left her family and community in mourning. The tragic accident is a poignant reminder to all to remain vigilant and ensure the proper safety precautions are taken, even in familiar surroundings.