The driver who allegedly ran over a renowned jeweler in Forest Hills, Queens has been arrested. The NYPD says that MTA train operator Charles Jordan has been charged with murder and leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.
On July 19th, at about 11:17 p.m., Aron "Eric" Aranbayev, 40, was struck by a car in front of his home on 71 Avenue. The car, a Dodge Magnum, fled the scene. Aranbayev and the driver may have been arguing about a parking space.
One person said, "He was just being dropped off, and some guy was in a rush. They got into a verbal argument and then the guy ran into him backwards." Aranbayev was taken to Jamaica Hospital where he died.
Police released video of the car and one of Aranbayev's famous clients, Floyd Mayweather, offered a $10,000 reward for information about the driver.
Apparently an auto body shop tipped off the police about about the damaged car. The Daily News reports, "The MTA employee admitted to police that he argued with Aranbayev before the hit and run, but didn’t say why."
Queens DA Richard Brown said, “The defendant is accused of viciously running down and killing a 40-year-old man, who was standing in front of his home. The victim didn’t have a chance. He was allegedly brutally rammed by a 1,000-plus pound, high-speed vehicle that violently threw him to the ground. The victim hit his head and succumbed to his injuries. This was a senseless, violent death that could have easily been prevented.”
Aranbayev worked at his family's business, Rafaello & Co. His family told JP Updates, "“We are grateful to the NYPD and everyone who was involved in helping catch the suspect. I know it will not bring Aron back, but at least it will not happen to any other families."
