NYPD tow truck driver arrested after fatally striking 7-year-old boy in Brooklyn

Police say the driver is an NYPD traffic agent who is facing two charges, including failure to exercise due care.

News 12 Staff and Faith Graham

Oct 27, 2023, 12:22 PM

Updated 402 days ago

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Police confirm the driver of an NYPD tow truck that struck and killed a young boy Thursday morning in Fort Greene has been arrested. They say the driver is an NYPD traffic agent who is facing two charges, including failure to exercise due care.
Witnesses say Kamari Hampton, 7, lived in the Whitman Houses. He was crossing at the intersection of Myrtle Avenue and North Portland Avenue on his scooter as he headed off to school when the NYPD tow truck slammed into him. Witnesses say his mother, who was steps behind him pushing a stroller, broke down into hysterics.
Police say Stephanie Sharp, the 54-year-old driver immediately stopped. However, witnesses claim the truck made it about 100 feet down the street and had to be flagged down before stopping.
Police say the boy was pronounced dead on arrival.
For most of the day Thursday, heartbroken neighbors congregated outside. A memorial slowly took form at the intersection where the young boy's life was taken.
The horrible tragedy has struck a chord with local leaders and residents who are calling for increased safety measures.
Several crossing guards could be seen at the intersection Friday morning.