NYC Crash Victim's Family Outraged as Driver Accused of Killing Son is Granted Bail

Family's Fury Over Bail Decision

• 💔 Justin Diaz's family expressed intense anger and grief after the man accused of killing their son was granted bail.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Over 30 family members attended the court hearing, emphasizing the profound impact of the loss.

Allegations Against the Driver

• 🚗 Prosecutors allege that Michael Pena, a 28-year-old fired FDNY firefighter, was driving drunk, high on cocaine and marijuana, and speeding at 83 mph.
• 💥 Pena is accused of blowing through a red light and colliding with Justin Diaz's vehicle on February 26.

Victim's Life and Future

• ✈️ Justin Diaz, who had earned a degree in aeronautics, was on his way to work at LaGuardia Airport when the crash occurred.
• ✨ His family remembers him as a hardworking, kind person with his entire future ahead of him.

Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions

• ⚖️ Michael Pena was indicted on 14 charges, including manslaughter and DUI.
• 🔓 Despite initial orders to be held without bail, the appellate division reversed the decision, mandating that bail be offered with conditions.
• 💰 Six members of Pena's family posted $75,000 bail, leading to his impending release from court custody.
• ❓ The victim's brother questioned the appellate court's decision, asking them to consider the pain of releasing a killer.

Next Steps

• 🗓️ Michael Pena is scheduled to appear back in court on May 15th in Queens.