Family Grapples with Unimaginable Loss After Queens Mother Killed by DOT Truck
The family of Nilufar Komilova, a 31-year-old Queens woman, is facing an agonizing ordeal as they attempt to shield her young children from the devastating reality of her death. Komilova was struck and killed by a New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) dump truck on March 10, 2026, in Kew Gardens. According to a close family friend, the children, a 3-year-old boy and a 7-year-old daughter, are repeatedly asking when they can see their mother, believing she is still in the hospital. The tragedy has left the family reeling, struggling to navigate the impossible task of explaining the loss to her children.
The incident occurred at the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and Lefferts Boulevard, as Komilova was walking home after dropping her daughter off at Public School 99. Akobir Azizov, a close friend of the family, described Komilova as a devoted mother who always prioritized her children’s well-being. “She usually takes Lefferts Blvd.,” Azizov said, noting that Komilova was known for her careful adherence to traffic laws. “It’s interesting because she always obeyed traffic laws, she never jaywalked, she would wait for the change signal to cross the street — and look what happened.” The driver of the 2017 Mack truck remained at the scene following the collision, but has not been charged as of March 12, 2026.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Nilufar Komilova has deeply affected her community. Azizov described the family as “beautiful” and Komilova as an “amazing person” dedicated to her husband and children. He recounted how Komilova’s husband, who works as an Uber driver to support the family, frantically searched for her after she failed to return home, only to discover the tragic news. “He called me and said, ‘I can’t find my wife.’ I thought maybe she went shopping but she wasn’t responding to calls. We called police, and after that we found out there was an accident,” Azizov said. The family is now grappling with not only grief but also the financial strain of losing a primary caregiver.
According to Azizov, the truck reportedly dragged Komilova for approximately two blocks before coming to a stop. He described the emotional toll on Komilova’s husband, stating he has been unable to eat or sleep since the incident and is experiencing high blood pressure. Friends and family are providing around-the-clock support, attempting to navigate the immediate aftermath of the tragedy and prepare for the tough task of explaining the loss to the children.
Investigation Underway, DOT Expresses Condolences
The New York Police Department’s Collision Investigation Squad is currently examining the circumstances surrounding the collision, which occurred at 4:54 p.m. On March 10 within the 102nd Precinct. The NYPD has not released further details regarding the investigation as of March 12, 2026.
In a statement released on March 11, 2026, DOT spokesperson Mona Bruno expressed the department’s deep sadness over the crash. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic crash, and our hearts are with the victim’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Bruno said. She added that the DOT is committed to fully understanding the events that led to the collision and to identifying any steps that can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The department is also focused on improving the safety of its fleet to reduce the risk of serious crashes across New York City streets.
Vision Zero and Municipal Vehicle Safety
The tragedy comes as New York City continues to implement its Vision Zero initiative, launched in 2017, aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries. According to DOT officials, crashes and injuries involving municipal vehicles have decreased by more than 20% since the program’s inception. However, this recent incident underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of all road users. The DOT maintains its commitment to improving fleet safety and reducing the risk of crashes, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and ongoing evaluation of safety protocols. The city’s Vision Zero plan focuses on several key areas, including street redesigns, increased enforcement of traffic laws, and public awareness campaigns.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available. The NYPD Collision Investigation Squad will likely examine factors such as vehicle maintenance records, driver training, and road conditions to determine the cause of the accident. The findings of the investigation could lead to recommendations for changes in DOT procedures or traffic regulations.
As the community mourns the loss of Nilufar Komilova, attention now turns to supporting her family and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. The family has established a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to Komilova’s husband and children. The NYPD is continuing its investigation, and updates will be provided as they become available.
Key Takeaways:
- Nilufar Komilova, 31, was killed after being struck by a DOT dump truck in Kew Gardens, Queens, on March 10, 2026.
- Her family is struggling to explain her death to her young children, who believe she is still in the hospital.
- The NYPD Collision Investigation Squad is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.
- The DOT has expressed condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to improving fleet safety.
The NYPD investigation is ongoing, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. We encourage readers to share their condolences and support for the Komilova family in the comments below.
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