SUV Driver Turns Himself In After Hit-and-Run Incident

The driver involved in a hit-and-run that resulted in the death of a gospel drummer and devoted father in East Williamsburg this past February has finally come forward. Gregory Ventura, 35, surrendered to the police around 8:40 a.m. on Monday, accompanied by his attorney, at the Downtown Brooklyn Police Station. He faces charges of manslaughter for punching Joshua Germain, 31, during the early hours of February 15, according to law enforcement sources.

Authorities reported that Germain was crossing Vandervoort Street at the intersection of Maspeth Street around 12:15 a.m. when he was struck by Ventura, who then sped away in a Nissan Murano.

Germain sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital Center, where he tragically passed away on February 20, which coincidentally was his father’s birthday.

Just a week prior to his death, Germain had attended an event at his son’s school, sharing a moment that his father, Jean Germain, recalled during an interview.

“He attended every game, every school function,” Jean said. “The last event he went to was a little party at school. He was there with his son just the Friday before he passed away.”

He added, “It’s heartbreaking; tomorrow is his son’s graduation,” emphasizing the depth of Germain’s love and commitment as a father.

Jean shared that Germain was an exceptional drummer in his youth, even earning accolades during the McDonald’s Gospel Fest while still in high school. He had a passion for mentoring younger children.

“He was always helping kids, and even their parents came to his funeral,” his father remembered. “His impact on the community was evident.”

As an adult, Germain was described as a diligent worker with a fulfilling job. His father lamented, “He was always ready to lend a hand to those he loved.”

Reflecting on the support they received after the tragic incident, Jean mentioned that people have tried to “give back” to his family for all Germain had done for them.

“Just having people reach out and support me—that’s been invaluable,” he said.

In the time since Germain’s passing, Jean has made an effort to brighten his grandson’s life, taking him on various trips. “After his father died, I sent him on a cruise. He has stamps from places like Playa del Carmen and Aruba,” he shared proudly.

When asked if Ventura’s arrest provided any solace, Jean simply responded, “Yes…yes.”

He further expressed, “This is a tremendous loss for me.”

Police noted that Ventura, who has no prior arrests, faces additional charges for leaving the scene of a fatal accident, reckless driving, and dangerously changing lanes.

Ventura was arraigned in Brooklyn Supreme Court on Monday, where he was granted supervised release at prosecutors’ request. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 18, according to the Brooklyn Attorney’s Office.