A fatal collision occurred in Greenwich Village early yesterday morning when a truck plowed into a city bus. The bus’ operator, William Pena, was thrown from the vehicle. He later died beneath the wheels of the bus. The driver of the truck was 22-year-old Domonic Whilby of Georgia, reports The New York Daily News.
Just hours before the pre dawn collision, Whilby was celebrating at a birthday bash at club 1 Oak for supermodel Shanina Shaik with his famous uncle, Tyson Beckford. Sources say that after a night of hard partying Whilby was escorted from the club around 3:30 am and was thrown out of Dream Downtown Hotel after he passed out on the second floor. Onlookers say that he became irritated when he was unable to locate the limousine that was scheduled to pick him up. The super at two W. 16th St. apartment buildings, Victor Vega, says that he witnessed Whilby randomly pound on multiple apartment doors.
“He was sweating like a mad dog,” said Vega. “He had to be high on drugs. He started kicking and banging the doors.”
Shortly after, Vega says Whilby jumped into a running 10 Rabbits Granola truck and sped away after the truck’s driver got out to make an early morning delivery. One witness tells NYDN that Whilby blew though a red light just moments before the fatal crash.
“It’s just the wrong place at the wrong time, I guess,” said the victim’s cousin, Edwin Espinal. “That’s what happened to William — an honest, working guy and he paid the consequences. Unbelievable.”
“William was a great person,” added Pena’s brother, Alex Pena. “I can’t say no more about him, great person … He was a great guy every way you can put it.”
Four others were injured in the accident, including a person on a scooter, who was dragged 50 ft.
“He didn’t even brake,” said Eddie Abdelmoty. “My tires blew up … He went right through the red light at the end of the block.”
Police say Whilby suffered minor neck injuries. Once apprehended by officers, he was taken to Bellevue Hospital where he was likely tested for drugs and alcohol. He is facing 10 charges, some of which include manslaughter, two counts of grand larceny, three counts of criminal assault, criminal mischief and criminal trespass.
Pena leaves behind a wife and 14-year-old daughter. Beckford’s manager has declined to comment on the tragedy.
– See more at: Madamenoire
