Aug. 30, 2024Updated Sept. 3, 2024, 3:34 p.m. ET
Two Bronx women face vehicular homicide charges following a crash on Route 206 in Sandyston that killed a 22-year-old cyclist on June 29.
Elizabeth Palacios-Gotay, 21, and Sabrina A. Pomales, 29, were taken into custody and booked into the Morris County jail on Wednesday. Authorities charged them with recklessly causing the death of Damian Baranowski, a 22-year-old recent NYU graduate from Milford, Pennsylvania.
Police responded to the crash site near McHugh Spur/CR 654 around 2:50 p.m. on June 29, where they found Baranowski deceased at the scene. He was reportedly struck while riding his bicycle.
According to authorities, Palacios-Gotay and Pomales were racing each other, driving at speeds exceeding 90 mph in a 50 mph zone. Witnesses stated Palacios-Gotay's vehicle struck Baranowski as she attempted to pass Pomales illegally on the shoulder.
Authorities confirmed that Baranowski was thrown from his bicycle. He suffered fatal injuries to his head and body. Palacios-Gotay's vehicle subsequently crashed into a utility pole and overturned, leaving her with serious injuries; she was hospitalized following the incident.
Court documents indicate both women are facing a motion for detention pending trial. Their next court appearance will address their potential release.