A 72-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of former Nickelodeon actress Kianna Underwood. Michael Griffiths was taken into custody on Tuesday, September 29, after being identified as the driver of a black 2021 Ford Explorer that struck Underwood on the morning of January 16, 2023.
Underwood, 33, was crossing the street in a crosswalk in Brooklyn when she was hit at approximately 6:50 a.m. NYPD stated that Griffiths crossed a yellow double line to overtake another vehicle when he struck her. Following the collision, Underwood was hit by a second vehicle, described as a black and gray sedan, while lying in the street. That driver also fled the scene.
Griffiths faces serious charges including leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and leaving the scene of an accident with injury. According to reports, the tragic incident occurred shortly after Underwood left a local bodega. Witnesses indicated that she was dragged at least two blocks after being struck a second time.
Graphic footage captured the horrific moments that followed the initial impact. Underwood was found dead near the intersection of Pitkin Avenue and Osborn Street, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and the entertainment community.
In the aftermath, Griffiths described the incident to media outlets. “At the time it was a little bit darkish,” he said. “I was going to work. It felt like I hit something, and I pulled over and stopped. I did nothing wrong.” He claimed he saw another vehicle hit Underwood after his SUV struck her. “I felt like I was going to faint when the incident happened,” he added.
Despite Griffiths' assertions, the NYPD's investigation has not identified the driver of the second vehicle, and no arrests have been made in connection with that part of the incident. The authorities earlier indicated that it was possible the driver who struck Underwood did not see her crossing the street.
Underwood gained prominence as a cast member of the Nickelodeon series "All That," which she joined during its sixth season in 1999. The show was a launching pad for several stars, and Underwood's career included various appearances on other programs and in commercials.
The circumstances surrounding her death have raised questions about road safety and the responsibilities of drivers. Griffiths’ arrest comes after months of investigation by the NYPD, which has been under pressure to resolve the case given the public's interest and the tragic nature of Underwood's death.
As the community mourns the loss of the young actress, the focus now shifts to the ongoing investigation and the potential for further developments in the case against Griffiths.
According to TheShadeRoom.
