Queens, New York — A Queens family is reeling from grief after a 68-year-old grandfather was fatally struck by an unlicensed moped driver going the wrong way through a neighborhood intersection.
The tragic collision, which occurred just days before the victim planned to bring his teenage daughter home for Christmas, has left his loved ones devastated and struggling to face the holiday season.
Beloved Grandfather Fatally Struck Crossing the Street
According to the NYPD, Trevor Lloyd Samuels, a former correction officer originally from Jamaica, was crossing 93rd Avenue shortly after 6:30 p.m. on Friday when a moped traveling the wrong way slammed into him. Authorities say Samuels was in the crosswalk at the time of the crash.
The driver, identified as 26-year-old Yunio Buleje Rodriguez, remained at the scene and was treated for minor injuries. Police later charged Rodriguez with aggravated unlicensed operation, noting that the investigation into the fatal collision remains active.
For Samuels’ family, the sudden knock on the door that night marked the moment their world changed forever.
Family Describes the Devastating Moment They Learned of His Death
His eldest daughter, 45-year-old Kievette Samuels, recalled the heartbreaking moment officers delivered the news.
“When we heard a knock, we thought it was him coming home,” she said. “When I opened the door, I saw the uniform, I was like, ‘Oh no.’ That’s when panic mode set in.”
Officers informed her that her father had been involved in an accident — and that he had died.
“I asked them like five times. I was like, ‘No, you’re joking.’”
The news hit especially hard knowing Samuels was preparing to fly to Jamaica on Tuesday to pick up his 17-year-old daughter and bring her home for the holidays. Now, instead of welcoming him back, the family is facing an empty seat at the table and a Christmas season overshadowed by grief.
Christmas Plans Shattered by Tragedy
For Kievette, the idea of celebrating Christmas without her father feels impossible.
“I have the Christmas tree, it’s in the box,” she said. “I’m not going to even take it out… I’m not feeling the spirit, I’m not seeing it.”
The spot where their Christmas tree normally stands is directly beside her father’s room, a daily reminder of his absence. She said the loss has been particularly painful for her daughter, who shared a close bond with Samuels.
“My daughter keeps thinking it’s him coming through the door,” she explained. “He came to their graduations, he played his part. He’s a ‘girl-dad,’ and it’s translated down to the grandchildren.”
Samuels, who moved to New York roughly 20 years ago, was described as deeply involved in his family’s lives and a doting grandfather who was active at every milestone.
Daughter Shows Grace Toward Young Driver Despite Anger
Even through her grief, Kievette expressed compassion toward Rodriguez, the young man charged in connection with the fatal collision.
“Basically he could’ve been my child,” she said. “So for me to have hate? No, no. I’m just mad that he did that.”
She added that she does not believe Rodriguez intended to kill anyone, but emphasized the seriousness of his actions.
“You were going the wrong way,” she said. “With that said, that decision changed everything for us.”
Authorities have not announced any additional charges but continue to investigate how and why the moped was traveling against traffic.
Community Mourns a Life Lost Too Soon
Neighbors and friends say Samuels was well-known in the area and adored by his family. His death has renewed concerns about moped safety and reckless riding across the city — an issue that has prompted increasing frustration among residents in Queens and beyond.
As the Samuels family faces a difficult holiday season, they are remembering Trevor as a devoted father, a proud grandfather, and a man whose warmth and strength anchored their family.
Share Your Thoughts
How can New York City address the growing dangers of unlicensed and wrong-way moped riders on local streets? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
