A longstanding tradition turned tragic for a group of friends who regularly gathered on the Upper West Side. On the night of May 15, Jason Negron and Michael Saint-Hilaire were among friends at their usual spot, sharing laughs and drinks. They were at the corner near 109th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, a familiar place where locals and Columbia University students often mingle.
As they stood by the sidewalk, the night seemed perfect with temperatures in the mid-60s. Michael straddled his motorcycle while Jason stood beside him, wearing his work uniform. The corner thrived with activity as friends continued to arrive, contributing to a lively atmosphere.
The gathering took place as bars in the area filled with patrons. Around 6 p.m., Michael and Jason ventured towards a nearby cement median to greet an acquaintance. They chose a spot teetering between bike and traffic lanes, surrounded by a small garden adorned with colorful flowers.
Meanwhile, a few blocks away, Elvin Suarez, age 61, drove his black Mercedes-Benz S.U.V. at high speeds towards his home, as reported by police. His vehicle grazed a white S.U.V., and witnesses described an apparent acceleration.
Tragically, the lives of Jason Negron and Michael Saint-Hilaire were cut short when the vehicle collided in their direction. Jason had shared a special night with his wife days earlier, celebrating her birthday, while Michael often visited the neighborhood he cherished from childhood.