NYC Sanitation Supervisor Suspended After Fatal LIE Crash; Snow Removal Practices Questioned

A city Sanitation Department supervisor has been suspended following a fatal crash on the Long Island Expressway (LIE) in Queens on February 6, 2026, raising questions about snow removal procedures. The crash, which claimed the life of 50-year-old Carlos Asitimbay, a livery driver from Queens, is under investigation by the NYPD to determine if improperly cleared snow contributed to the accident.

Details of the Crash

Carlos Asitimbay lost control of his Toyota Camry near the Van Wyck Expressway exit on the westbound LIE. His vehicle was subsequently struck by a tractor-trailer. Asitimbay sustained severe head and body trauma and was pronounced dead at New York-Presbyterian Hospital Queens. The tractor-trailer driver was hospitalized with minor injuries.

Investigation Focuses on Snow Removal

Investigators are examining whether snow and ice were improperly cleared from the highway shoulder and pushed into a traffic lane by a Sanitation Department vehicle less than two hours before the crash. Sources indicate that this created a hazardous road condition, potentially contributing to Asitimbay losing control of his vehicle . At least one minor fender bender occurred before the fatal collision, potentially linked to the snow in the roadway .

Protocol for Snow Removal

While it is common practice for Sanitation workers to move snow into traffic lanes on local streets to aid in melting, this practice is explicitly prohibited on highways where vehicles travel at higher speeds. The LIE crash occurred in a 50 mph zone .

Official Response

Mayor Zohran Mamdani addressed the incident, stating, “This is currently the subject of an active NYPD investigation, and I can’t provide comment while that is underway, but I will be sure to update you as we have anything to share.” The Sanitation Department has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation. A Sanitation supervisor has been placed on a 10-day unpaid leave pending the outcome of the NYPD review .

Victim Remembered

Carlos Asitimbay, a husband and father of two, had been a livery cab driver in New York City for 20 years. His family has expressed their grief over the loss .

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.