Tragedy struck Brooklyn early Friday when a former child star met a heartbreaking end on the streets of Brownsville.

Kianna Underwood, 33, known for her roles on Nickelodeon’s “All That” and as the voice of Fuchsia Glover on “Little Bill,” was killed in a hit-and-run incident on January 16, 2026, at around 6:43 a.m.

The crash occurred at the intersection of Pitkin Avenue and Mother Gaston Boulevard in the 73rd Precinct. Police reported that Underwood was crossing the street when she was struck by a black 2021 Ford Explorer SUV, followed by a second impact from a black-and-gray sedan, with both drivers fleeing the scene before authorities arrived.

Details of a Devastating Collision

Emergency medical services pronounced Underwood dead at the scene, and no arrests have been made as the NYPD Highway District Collision Investigation Squad continues to investigate.

The incident began when the SUV, traveling westbound on Pitkin Avenue with a green light, crossed the double yellow line into oncoming traffic to pass another vehicle. Underwood was in the crosswalk at the time of the collision, according to police findings.

Investigators have pieced together a grim sequence of events that paints a picture of reckless driving in Brooklyn. The NYPD confirmed the first vehicle, a Ford Explorer, veered dangerously out of its lane before striking Underwood, Fox News reported.

As if that weren’t enough, a second vehicle—a sedan—hit her while she lay helpless in the roadway. Both drivers vanished into the early morning darkness, leaving behind a scene of tragedy and unanswered questions.

The issue has sparked debate over road safety and accountability in urban areas like Brownsville. How can drivers simply flee after such a horrific act? It’s a glaring reminder of the need for stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for hit-and-run offenders.

Underwood’s Legacy on Screen

Kianna Underwood wasn’t just a victim; she was a talent who brought joy to countless kids through her work on Nickelodeon. From her sketches on “All That” in 2005 to voicing characters on “Little Bill” from 1999 to 2004, she left a mark on children’s entertainment. Her final credited role was on “All That,” a show that also launched stars like Nick Cannon and Kenan Thompson.

Beyond TV, Underwood showcased her versatility by performing as Little Inez in the first national tour of the Broadway musical “Hairspray.” Her career, though cut short, reflected a dedication to her craft that deserved far more time to flourish.

Yet, in today’s culture, where celebrity is often fleeting, her death raises questions about how we value those who shaped our childhoods. Are we too quick to forget the names behind the nostalgia? Her loss feels like a call to remember and honor, not just move on.

Police Account of the Tragedy

Official statements from the NYPD provide a chilling account of the incident’s timeline. A DCPI spokesperson noted, “On Friday, January 16, 2026, at approximately 6:43 a.m., police responded to a 9-1-1 call of a pedestrian struck at Pitkin Avenue and Mother Gaston Boulevard within the confines of the 73rd Precinct.”

Further details emerged from investigators, who stated, “As the pedestrian was lying on the roadway, she was subsequently struck by a black-and-gray sedan operated by an unidentified individual.” This second strike, after the initial impact, underscores the sheer disregard for human life displayed by both drivers.

But let’s be frank—statements like these, while factual, don’t address the deeper issue of why such incidents keep happening.

Urban intersections shouldn’t be death traps. It’s time for city leaders to stop with the empty promises and deliver real solutions, like better traffic cameras or harsher laws for reckless driving.