A local crossing guard in Nassau County, known for his dedication, was tragically killed after being hit by a driver suspected of being under the influence of drugs. Prosecutors reported that the driver was allegedly high on “street Xanax” at the time of the incident.
Joshua Alvarado, 30, is now facing elevated manslaughter charges after allegedly jumping the curb and striking John Miro, 70, who was assisting children as they walked to school in Merrick. According to the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, Miro succumbed to his injuries on March 6, one week after the accident.
Initially, Alvarado, who is from Queens, was arrested on assault charges. However, after Miro’s passing, those charges were adjusted to include manslaughter.
The DA’s office indicated that Alvarado was believed to have had Street Xanax, a potent and illegal synthetic drug, in his system during the crash that occurred on February 26.
Prosecutors mentioned that Alvarado was operating a commercial pickup truck en route to an exterminator call when he dozed off at a red light at the intersection of Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue, around 8 a.m. He reportedly woke up to loud honking, veered through the intersection, jumped the curb, and struck Miro, who had been clearing snow from the sidewalk.
Miro suffered serious injuries, including blunt force trauma to the head, a fractured hip, and multiple broken ribs.
Toxicology results indicated that Alvarado was also taking the anxiety medications Xanax and clonazepam, which is used to manage seizures and panic disorders.
District Attorney Anne Donnelly stated, “This defendant was allegedly driving while severely impaired by a combination of a powerful sedative and illegal street drugs, resulting in the death of a beloved railroad crossing guard.” She added that Miro had left a significant void in the lives of those who knew him, as he had dedicated years to helping children cross the street safely. Donnelly emphasized the commitment to seeking justice for Miro’s family and the community that relied on his support.
Alvarado is facing charges that include second-degree vehicular manslaughter and assault, all linked to operating a vehicle while impaired. He has pleaded not guilty and remains in custody until his next court appearance. If found guilty, he could face a prison sentence of seven to 15 years.
An attempt to reach Alvarado’s attorney for comments was unsuccessful.
The CSEA Nassau Local 830, the union that represents crossing guards, remarked earlier this month that Miro “served with quiet courage and dedication,” while a fundraiser noted that he performed his duties “with a smile and a kind word.”
